Africa
Geopolitics
Kenya
Kenya boosts border security as Somali and Jubaland forces clash over disputed elections
Bahati shalom
Dec 11, 2024
Kenya's Somali border wall stands as a symbol of security within rising tensions and ongoing regional challenges.
Kenyan security forces heightened their presence at the Ishiakani border town following intense clashes between Somalia's Federal Government troops and Jubaland forces in the Raskamboni area. The confrontation, sparked on the morning of December 11, saw federal soldiers fleeing and surrendering to Kenyan authorities.
Over 300 Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers reportedly surrendered by Wednesday evening, with dozens seeking refuge at Kenya's border post. Witnesses said Jubaland troops captured several federal soldiers, seized the Raskamboni camp, and set fire to vehicles.
Tensions escalated as federal troops, recently deployed from Mogadishu, utilized drones in the conflict. Somalia’s Defence Ministry condemned the clashes, stating,
“These acts severely undermine national security and Somalia’s sovereignty,” and vowed legal repercussions for those involved.
Meanwhile, Jubaland’s Deputy Security Minister, General Adan Xaji, accused Mogadishu of misusing resources intended for national defense, saying, “It is deeply regrettable that these resources... are being used against its own people.”
The dispute stems from contested Jubaland elections, with Mogadishu opposing Ahmed Madobe’s reelection and accusing him of failing to address the al-Shabaab threat in the region. Kenyan officials, bracing for possible refugee influxes, are monitoring the volatile situation closely.
