KISMAYO (SD)Today, a deadly clash occurred in Kismayo, the temporary capital of the Jubaland administration. The battle was between Kismayo’s police forces and the guards of Senator Ilyas Gabose, one of the candidates for membership in Jubaland’s parliament. The conflict began when Senator Gabose’s guards were denied entry to the Agan Hotel in the city, triggering a severe standoff. The intense exchange of gunfire between the two sides resulted in casualties. The clash is reported to have stemmed from political misunderstandings and internal conflicts within the Jubaland administration, particularly during the ongoing election period in the city.

Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe has a strong disagreement with Senator Ilyas Gaboose, which is part of the ongoing tense situation in Kismayo. Gaboose, who is currently a parliamentary candidate in Jubaland, has been accused of being part of the opposition against President Madobe. The conflict is reportedly escalating, potentially leading to a significant change in the political landscape of the city. This situation is raising tensions concerning the upcoming elections for the Jubaland House of Representatives, directly impacting the region’s security and stability.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned the attack that took place this morning at the Agan Hotel in Kismayo, describing it as a deliberate act intended to incite civil war among the people of Jubaland.

The National Security Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, stated that the incident clearly opposes the country’s stability, emphasizing that it is unacceptable for forces loyal to the Jubaland administration to be involved in such acts. Minister Fartaag called on all political sides within Jubaland to cease the violence and act responsibly for the common good of the people.

The ongoing conflict and political turmoil in Kismayo have highlighted severe political and security challenges. Ahmed Madobe planned to inaugurate himself on November 25, while Ilyas Bedel Gaboose was elected as another president of Jubaland. This has intensified the existing conflict, making the political situation in Kismayo extremely volatile.