By Sayyid Omar

Heavy clashes broke out in Baardheere on February 5, prompting Jubaland’s Ministry of Interior to issue a statement accusing the Federal Government of orchestrating a planned assault. According to the statement, the attack resulted in multiple casualties, injuries, and property destruction.

Jubaland accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre of fueling instability and bloodshed to maintain power.

“We firmly hold Hassan Sheikh and his administration responsible for the bloodshed in Baardheere, aimed at securing political gains at the expense of civilian lives,” the statement read.

Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Internal Security defended the operation, stating that it was aimed at neutralizing “disruptive elements” attempting to incite unrest. The government reported capturing several individuals linked to the conflict and vowed to crack down on further instability.

The Federal Government also directly accused Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe of orchestrating illegal activities, stating:

“Ahmed Madobe remains engaged in unlawful mobilization and acts of violence, worsening the crimes he has already committed.”

The fighting follows Jubaland’s recent assertion of control over Baardheere’s district headquarters on February 4.

Tensions between the Federal Government and Jubaland have been escalating since October 2024, when Ahmed Madobe rejected the Federal Government’s push for a one-person-one-vote election system. His withdrawal from the National Consultative Council meeting further deepened the divide, culminating in his re-election in Kismayo on November 25, 2024. With both sides exchanging accusations and tensions rising, the situation in Baardheere remains volatile, raising concerns over further violence and political instability in Jubaland and Somalia.