Suufta, Gedo — The Federal Government of Somalia has remained conspicuously silent amid growing concerns over foreign interference in the Gedo region, following reports that Kenyan and Ethiopian officials held high-level talks with Jubbaland Vice President Mohamud Sayid Aden in the border village of Suufta.
Sources in the region say the meeting focused on recent developments in Gedo, including a series of armed clashes in Beled Hawo town, which have raised fears of renewed instability in the area.
The talks reportedly took place without coordination or consultation with Somalia’s federal authorities, further deepening concerns about the erosion of national sovereignty and unauthorized foreign engagement in internal Somali affairs.
Local sources in Beled Hawo confirmed that tension remains high after the recent clashes between Jubbaland-aligned forces and local militia reportedly loyal to the Federal Government.
Mohamud Sayid Aden, who has previously been accused by the federal government of inciting instability, is seen as a divisive figure in the Gedo region — an area that has long been a flashpoint between Jubbaland authorities and Mogadishu.
The Somali government has yet to issue a formal statement, but the lack of response is raising alarm among political observers and residents alike, many of whom are calling for immediate action and clarity on the country’s stance.
“If the government remains silent while neighboring countries interfere and unauthorized meetings are held on Somali soil, it risks losing control over its territorial affairs,” said Fatima Abukar, a political analyst based in Nairobi.
This incident comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions in the Horn of Africa, with Somalia and Ethiopia still at odds over the latter’s controversial maritime MoU with Somaliland.
Analysts warn that the fragile situation in Gedo could escalate further if clear and coordinated action is not taken by Somalia’s central authorities.