The regional administration of Jubbaland has issued a strong warning regarding escalating political tensions in Southwest State, cautioning against possible military intervention by the federal government of Somalia.
In a statement shared on social media, Jubbaland’s Minister of Information, Abdifatah Mohamed Mukhtaar, criticized what he described as the federal government’s approach to the ongoing dispute, suggesting that authorities in Mogadishu have failed to draw lessons from previous conflicts.
Mukhtaar referenced the clashes in Ras Kamboni, warning that any similar military action in Southwest could result in both political and operational setbacks. He specifically cautioned that such a move could undermine national stability if not handled carefully.
“If President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud continues his invasion of Southwest, it will be seen as a political and military failure,” Mukhtaar stated. “What happened in Ras Kamboni offers important lessons that must not be ignored, particularly to avoid repeating past mistakes.”
The minister further expressed concern over the potential misuse of national armed forces, arguing that deploying the military for what he termed “non-national purposes” could damage both the institution’s reputation and broader state integrity.
“History clearly shows the consequences of poor leadership decisions, especially when situations are not managed wisely,” he added.
The remarks come amid rising tensions between federal and regional authorities, highlighting ongoing challenges in Somalia’s federal system and the delicate balance of power between Mogadishu and its member states.
