MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – Jubaland’s Ministry of Security has accused the Somali Federal Government of attempting to misuse United Nations and African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) helicopters to deploy armed men to attack Kismayo.
The allegations were made in a statement released just hours after armed clashes erupted in the port town, leaving one person dead and two others injured.
The violence reportedly began when a group of armed men, allegedly led by a former police officer, attempted to disrupt ongoing state elections in Kismayo using a vehicle.
Jubaland police engaged the group, resulting in a deadly confrontation.
Jubaland is currently in the midst of state elections for its parliament and presidency, where incumbent President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, widely known as “Madobe,” is seeking re-election.
The Somali Federal Government has opposed the electoral process and has demanded Madobe’s withdrawal from the race.
In its statement, Jubaland’s Ministry of Security condemned Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, accusing them of attempting to “create unnecessary tension for narrow political agendas.”
Meanwhile, ATMIS issued a statement reaffirming its impartiality in Jubaland’s electoral process. “ATMIS would like to underscore its neutrality and impartiality in the electoral process in Jubaland,” the mission stated.
The Jubaland presidential election is scheduled to take place on Monday, with tensions running high as political rivalries intensify.