Ethiopian Forces Detain SNA Soldiers Amid Rising Tensions Over Jubaland Elections

Ethiopian Forces detained six Somali National Army soldiers at Dolow airport amid FGS-Jubaland electoral disputes, signaling heightened tensions over the upcoming indirect elections in Kismayo, against federal government wishes. The incident follows security measures imposed by Jubaland amidst fears of federal interference. With ongoing discussions regarding Ethiopian military presence in Somalia, the situation reflects geopolitical complexities that could affect the region’s future.

On Tuesday, six individuals identified as Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers were apprehended by Ethiopian Forces upon their arrival at Dolow airport in the Gedo region. Reports indicate that these soldiers were dressed in civilian clothing, and the rationale for their detention remains ambiguous. This event has surfaced amidst ongoing tensions regarding the electoral process in Jubaland, where the transitional administration has been accused of attempting to disrupt the upcoming indirect elections in Kismayo. Last week, Jubaland authorities heightened security measures at Kismayo Airport due to allegations about President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s plans to deploy elite troops into the region to interfere with the electoral proceedings. The Jubaland state is determined to proceed with its indirect elections in defiance of President Mohamud’s request for a standardized universal suffrage model across federal states in Somalia. Ahmed Madobe, Jubaland’s leader, argues that the push for direct elections may threaten term limits and could lead to unlawful extensions of power. In light of these developments, Jubaland is actively engaged in selecting lawmakers, who will subsequently elect the regional president. Ethiopia, having recalibrated its stance, is now endorsing Jubaland, marking a shift from its previously strained relations with the state following disagreements with Mogadishu’s administration. The situation surrounding Ethiopian troops in Somalia is also evolving, with recent announcements from Somalia indicating that Ethiopian forces will depart by December 2024. This withdrawal follows Ethiopia’s controversial agreement granting Somaliland sea access earlier this year. Currently, over 4,500 Ethiopian troops partake in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), while an additional 1,000 non-ATMIS troops assist in counter-terrorism efforts against Al-Shabaab. The Somali government has articulated concerns regarding the ongoing presence of Ethiopian troops in peacekeeping roles, promoting Egypt as the preferred leader for forthcoming stabilization and support forces to be deployed in the region after recent defense accords with Cairo.

The tensions between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Jubaland concerning electoral processes represent a critical facet in the stability and governance of the region. The conflict arises from differing electoral models that the federal government and Jubaland propose. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud advocates for a universal suffrage model, while Jubaland seeks to continue with indirect elections. Ethiopia’s role as a regional player further complicates this dynamic, as its military presence historically has influenced political and security landscapes within Somalia. Moreover, the evolving geopolitical relationships involving Egypt and Ethiopia highlight the intricate balance of power and national interests in the Horn of Africa.

In conclusion, the detention of six SNA soldiers by Ethiopian forces underscores the escalating tensions surrounding the electoral process in Jubaland amid divergent visions of governance between regional and federal authorities. As Jubaland perseveres in its mandate to conduct indirect elections, the situation remains fluid, particularly with Ethiopia’s shifting allegiances and the future role of foreign troops in Somalia. These developments could significantly impact the political landscape and regional stability going forward.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com