The Somali government has repeatedly accused Ethiopia of meddling in its internal affairs, claiming Ethiopia supplied weapons and troops to Jubaland amid strained relations between federal and regional leaders. This situation has escalated tensions and raised concerns about regional stability. Ethiopia has not responded to the latest allegations, which underscore a fear of possible conflict.
The government of Somalia has accused Ethiopia for the fourth time within a year of intervening in its domestic affairs by allegedly supplying arms and troops to Jubaland state. Tensions have heightened as Ethiopian aircraft are reported to have delivered weaponry to Kismayo, Jubaland’s administrative capital. This situation arises amidst an ongoing political struggle between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, whose recent election is deemed illegitimate by the federal government. Somalia’s Deputy Information Minister, Abdirahman Al-Adala, stated that the government is prepared to counter any threats from Ethiopia, reiterating previous claims of Ethiopian military training for Somali militias. Ethiopia has previously denied such accusations and has not yet responded to the recent allegations, raising concerns of escalating conflict in the region.
The conflict surrounding Ethiopia’s alleged military support to Jubaland is rooted in a complex history of political instability in Somalia. The federal government of Somalia has consistently criticized Ethiopian involvement, fearing that it undermines the sovereignty of the nation. The struggle for control between federal authorities and regional leaders like Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe highlights broader governance issues, further complicated by Ethiopia’s strategic interests in accessing the Red Sea through Somaliland. This backdrop of regional tension has attracted international attention as stakeholders seek to ensure stability in the Horn of Africa.
In summary, Somali authorities’ accusations against Ethiopia underscore heightened tensions in the region, influenced by political discord within Somalia and Ethiopia’s perceived ambitions. With claims of military support and the alleged transportation of weapons, there is an urgent call for international intervention to prevent further instability and potential conflict. Should these allegations remain unaddressed, they pose a serious threat to peace in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com