Kismayo (WDN)— Jubaland authorities accused Somali federal forces under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of launching a military assault on Baardheere, escalating a bitter territorial dispute between Jubaland and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). This is the second major attack on Jubaland by federal forces, following a failed invasion of Raskambodi district, where federal troops were decisively defeated in a single day. To save themselves, many federal troops reportedly surrendered to Kenyan authorities.

Clashes erupted early Wednesday when federal forces attempted to seize Baardheere’s district headquarters. Jubaland officials claimed the assault was a blatant attempt to dismantle their authority and consolidate federal control over the Gedo region. “President Mohamud’s forces targeted a civilian administrative center, exposing his disregard for the people and his pursuit of personal political interests,” said a Jubaland spokesperson.

Despite federal forces’ claims of victory, Jubaland stated its troops successfully repelled the assault and retained control of the administration complex. Sporadic fighting continued throughout the day, with unconfirmed reports of casualties. Residents reported heavy gunfire and an influx of displaced civilians.

A Country in Crisis: No Working Government

Somalia remains under Chapter Seven of the United Nations Charter, with no functioning central government. Its security is managed primarily by African Union (AU) troops, while over 80% of the federal government’s recurrent budget is funded by the international community. The ongoing constitutional crisis and absence of effective governance have compelled many to call on regional bodies such as IGAD and the AU to step in, mediate, and help restore stability.                               

A Battle for Legitimacy

Baardheere’s strategic position in the Gedo region makes it a focal point in the federal-state power struggle. Jubaland insists its governance aligns with Somalia’s federal framework, while Mogadishu accuses it of operating a parallel government. Critics argue that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is attempting to bypass the provisional federal constitution to impose his own version of governance and create an election commission favorable to him, allowing him to remain in power indefinitely.

Security experts warn that these clashes risk destabilizing the region further, diverting resources from the fight against Al-Shabaab. “Attacking a civilian administrative center is not counter-terrorism; it’s political sabotage,” said Gedo elder Yusuf Aden. Others caution that continued federal-state disputes only strengthen Al-Shabaab, which thrives in fragmented states.

The situation in Baardheere remains tense. Jubaland forces retain control of the district’s headquarters, while federal forces have not fully withdrawn from the district outskirts. No mediation efforts have been announced by IGAD or the African Union, further prolonging the uncertainty and raising fears of prolonged conflict.

WardheerNews