Somalia's PM calls for an immediate end to Galmudug conflict

Somali PM warns ASWJ against attack on Galmudug which could lead to the collapse of the admin [File Photo]

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A bitter fallout has erupted between Sufi group Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a [ASWJ] and the government of Somalia, over 17 months after the militia appeared to have been wiped out of Galmadug state which is considered their stronghold.

In early 2020, the group clashed with Somali National Army [SNA], losing key areas and even forcing hundreds of its fighters to surrender and leaders ran away from the country. The conflict left dozens of people dead.

And in what appears to be the return of ASWJ, the group, which is considered rivals of Al-Shabaab militants, seized Guri El town in Galmadug after intensive fighting with SNA troops who were manning the area, leading to fierce clashes according to authorities.

The group also stormed various government buildings which it took over from local authorities, in what seemed to be a complete takeover of the town even as Somalia struggles with local elections, which are long overdue.

On Friday, the Federal Government of Somalia deployed reinforcement troops to the central town of Dhusamareb Friday to back Galmudug regional forces fighting to defend the city from ASWJ following the Thursday battle in Bohol, which left over 10 dead.

SNA officials said over 200 troops were sent to Galmudug, Somalia. This, it argued, will give the town necessary protection from the militia, which lost the battle over 15 months ago after years of dominance in Central Somalia, where it gained relevance following victories against Al-Shabaab.

On Thursday, reports indicated a gunfight broke out between SNA forces led by Gen Mas'ud, a military official, and the Ahlu Sunna fighters Bohol area, about 40Kms north of the Galmudug capital, Dhusamareb, which was recently renamed Samareeb.

ASWJ making a comeback in central Somalia, regrouping and mobilizing fighters to regain control. According to reports, on top of over 10 who died, at least 20 other people were severely wounded in the unprecedented fighting.

Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble on Friday termed the fighting in Galmadug as "unfortunate" in a statement issued by his office. Roble said the Galmudug state has complete legitimacy, and any action that undermines the state's existence should be avoided.

Later, a statement issued by Ahlu Sunna clerics criticized the President of Galmudug Ahmed Kaliye and the National Security Adviser, Mr. Fahad Yasin. The clerics insisted their aim is to flush out Al-Shabaab militants who are "regrouping and retaking our towns".

Galmudug President Ahmed Karie alias Qoorqoor returned to Dhusamareb Friday, hours after Ahlu Sunna recaptured Guri'el town, central Somalia without much struggle. The president reportedly flew from Mogadishu with Gorgor forces who were dispatched by the federal government.

GAROWE ONLINE