Somali Cabinet praises federal troops in Gedo region amid clashes with Jubbaland forces

Thursday July 31, 2025

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali Cabinet on Thursday commended federal government forces for what it described as a "brave effort" to repel destabilizing activities in Beled Hawo, a flashpoint town in the Gedo region where fighting has intensified between federal troops and Jubbaland-aligned forces.

In its weekly meeting held in Mogadishu, the Council of Ministers praised both the military and the residents of Beled Hawo for their cooperation in maintaining order. The Cabinet acknowledged the community’s close coordination with security agencies, saying it reflected strong civic support for the state and its institutions.

"The people of Balad-Hawo have shown remarkable awareness and responsibility in supporting the national security forces," read a statement issued after the meeting. "We reaffirm our commitment to defeating terrorist groups and any elements that undermine national unity and stability."

The statement also reiterated the government’s broader goal of eradicating al-Shabaab and ensuring long-term peace and development throughout the country. Officials emphasized that any group or individual attempting to disrupt public order is “an obstacle to the aspirations of the Somali people.”

The Cabinet’s remarks follow a recent flare-up in Beled Hawo after the federal government deployed Abdirashid Janan—a former Jubbaland security minister—as the new regional intelligence chief for Gedo. Janan, who arrived by military helicopter on Tuesday along with senior federal army commanders, immediately drew sharp backlash from Jubbaland authorities.

The Somali government maintains that its actions in Gedo are part of a national effort to restore law and order, while Jubbaland officials argue that the federal presence undermines their legitimate authority.

The developments in Gedo underscore the ongoing friction within Somalia’s federal system, where disputes over territory, loyalty, and power-sharing continue to fuel instability even as the country pushes forward with counterterrorism operations and governance reforms.