KISMAYO, Somalia — Details are emerging of the damage caused by a brief but intense conflict in Kismayo on Saturday morning, as tensions surrounding the Jubbaland presidential election escalated into violence. The confrontation occurred after security forces of Jubaland clashed with the bodyguards of presidential candidate Ilyas Beddel Gaboose, a senator in Somalia’s Upper House, near the AGAN hotel in central Kismayo.
The conflict erupted when Gaboose and his entourage were barred from entering the hotel, where election-related activities were taking place. The skirmish, which lasted only a few minutes, resulted in the death of one of Gaboose’s security personnel and injuries on both sides, according to local sources.
Gaboose, who has announced his candidacy to challenge the incumbent Ahmed Madobe, is considered a strong opposition figure. The clash underscores the deep political divisions within Jubaland as the region prepares for its presidential election on November 25.
Jubbaland police have stated the incident came after Gaboose’s security guards fired first at a security checkpoint while a suspected car was being searched. At least one of Gaboose’s guards was killed and two police officers were wounded in the gunfight.
The city remains on edge with opposing forces maneuvering amidst the ongoing election controversy. The violence casts a shadow over the electoral process, highlighting the volatile political climate in the region.
HORN LIFE
