MOGDISHU (SD) – In a statement released by the ATMIS forces operating in Somalia, they addressed allegations regarding their involvement in a significant dispute over the Jubaland elections taking place in Kismayo.

ATMIS stated: “ATMIS emphasizes its neutrality and impartiality concerning Somalia’s electoral processes, including the contested elections ongoing in Jubbaland.”

The city of Kismayo is currently embroiled in a dispute over the Jubbaland presidential election, with the opposition contesting the electoral process managed by a committee appointed by the current Jubbaland administration. The Federal Government of Somalia also opposes the ongoing process.

Yesterday, a faction of the opposition announced that they had “elected a president.”

Additionally, there was a clash between the security guards of one of the candidates in Kismayo and the Jubaland police, resulting in the death of a security guard of the candidate.