Somalia’s Jubaland Files UN Complaint Against Federal Government Over Interference

KISMAYO, Somalia - Jubaland has reportedly filed a complaint against the federal government of Somalia at the United Nations Office in Somalia (UNOS), citing internal interference of its government by external forces.

Jubaland says the government in Mogadishu has continually undermined the administration in Kismayo, noting the political uncertainty in the Gedo region, which has been the epicentre of the tussle between the two administrations.

Mohamud Sayyid Aden, the Vice President of Jubaland State, confirmed the decision by the local administration to complain about the ongoing battle to control Gedo, which is strategic to both Kismayo and Mogadishu.

Mahmoud Sayid Aden, who is currently in the Gedo region, has urged the elders and intellectuals of Jubaland to stand firm against what he described as the “divisive agenda” of a Mogadishu-based group.

He emphasized that a handful of individuals pursuing personal interests cannot determine the fate of the people of Gedo. It is in Gedo that the federal government of Somalia has pitched a tent, ready to take over, with elite forces deployed within the vicinity.

So fierce have been the tensions beyond Mogadishu and Kismayo, with Kenya chipping in to mediate. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Kismayo this week, but apparently, he didn't recognise the local administration.

Both parties, which thanked Kenya for initiating the mediation process, confirmed that talks will remain active until a lasting solution is found. Villa Somalia supports direct polls while Jubaland sees this as a scheme to allow unconstitutional term extensions for federal and regional leaders.

GAROWE ONLINE