Former President of Somalia, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, strongly condemns the renewed clan conflict in parts of the Middle Shabelle region. The ex-president extended his condolences to the civilians who lost their lives in the recent violence near Haji Ali area, describing the incident as deeply unfortunate.
Mogadishu, SOMALIA.
Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed lamented the return of conflict between clans, emphatically denouncing the ongoing violence. He expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives, particularly considering that efforts to foster peace and reconciliation commenced months ago. The former President highlighted the need for a sustained resolution to the conflict and urged swift justice for those responsible for the killings in the Haji Ali area.
“We call to hold accountable the perpetrators under the law in accordance with the Adale agreement reached on 25 November 2022. We will intensify our efforts to achieve a lasting solution to the renewed clan warfare in the region and work towards peace and reconciliation among the affected communities,” stated the former President on his Facebook account.
Recent escalation of hostilities
The recently escalated clashes in Middle Shabelle have exacerbated concerns of a potential all-out clan war. The most recent fighting began when militiamen from the Abdalle Arone subclan burned several wooden tents, prompting retaliation from Agoonyar Gabane, who burned homes in a remote area within the Adale district. In response, the Abdalle Arone militia attacked the Boos Hareeri village, inhabited by members of the Obakar Gabane subclan. This clash resulted in the death of at least four people while more than eight others on both sides sustained injuries.
The violence has persisted despite calls for peace from clan elders and politicians. On Saturday, the situation further deteriorated when militia from Agoonyar Gabane killed five people, reportedly a teacher and four of his students who were travelling to the Haji Ali village. The victims were all from Abdalle Arone.
Ineffective peace process
Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who previously led a peace process in the region, expressed disappointment that the agreements reached during that initiative were ineffective. The resurgence of clan fighting necessitates renewed commitment to address the root causes and achieve sustainable peace.
The former President’s strong condemnation of the clan conflict highlights the situation’s urgency and the need for collective efforts to bring about lasting peace and reconciliation in the Middle Shabelle region.
