Tensions are rising between Somalia and Ethiopia as the Somali government solidifies control over Beled Hawo while Ethiopia coordinates with Jubaland officials.
Reliable sources confirmed an Ethiopian general was dispatched to confront Abdirashid Janan over his recent deployment.
Janan, a controversial figure, took over Beled Hawo on behalf of the federal government, sparking concerns among Ethiopian and Jubaland officials over control.
The Ethiopian general met Jubaland leaders and clan elders near the border, demamding Janan and his forces to vacate Beled Hawo immediately.
When elders questioned the order, the general reportedly said Ethiopia collaborates with Jubaland security forces, not federal troops recently deployed to the area.
Unverified local reports suggest Egypt may deploy forces to the region under an AU mandate, raising further concern within Ethiopian military circles.
Ethiopian troops are reportedly backing Doolow’s local mayor, who opposes the federal government and recently disbanded a government unit in the town.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was in Addis Ababa during this reported standoff, further complicating Somalia’s already fragile relations with Ethiopia.
If Jubaland and Ethiopian forces expel federal troops from Beled Hawo, it may reignite last year’s diplomatic row over the Addis Ababa’s MoU with Somaliland.
On Wednesday, Somalia’s government issued a statement criticizing Jubaland deputy leader Mohamud Sayid Aden for fueling tensions in Gedo region.
The statement also avoided mentioning Ethiopian military officers, who were seen visiting Doolow and meeting Jubaland officials and clan elders at the border.
On Thursday, Jubaland authorities released a statement accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of escalating tensions and fueling conflict in the Gedo region.
They claimed the military build-up and unrest in Gedo are being driven by foreign interests tied to the ongoing Nile water dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia.
Gedo remains a flashpoint in the power struggle, especially during elections, as both sides compete for parliamentary seats and regional influence.
The renewed tensions in Gedo threaten stability and raise worries about Somalia’s next electoral process amid political uncertainty and rivalry.
