The Jubbaland State Government has strongly condemned what it described as an irresponsible decision by the Federal Government of Somalia, which today directly endangered the preliminary delegation and the personal security team of the President of Jubbaland, after the aircraft carrying them was turned back from Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport.
From the outset of the journey, the aircraft carrying these officials departed from Sayid Mohamed Abdulle Hassan Airport, and all relevant authorities—including the Civil Aviation Authority, the conference organizing committee, and the federal security agencies—were formally notified. However, as the aircraft was approaching Mogadishu airport, a sudden and unexpected decision was issued ordering it to return to Kismayo, despite uncertainty over whether the aircraft had sufficient fuel to safely make the return trip. This action reflects a grave level of irresponsibility and a hostile decision that placed the lives of the preliminary delegation at serious risk.
Furthermore, two civilian aircraft carrying ordinary passengers were also turned back today and denied landing at Mogadishu International Airport, further highlighting the danger and disorder resulting from these measures.
The Federal Government, which appears reluctant to allow the Consultative Conference in Mogadishu to take place, seems determined to use every possible means to obstruct the meeting. This conduct demonstrates a lack of goodwill and an absence of commitment to resolving the country’s ongoing political crisis.
We clarify that there has been no joint decision reached by the joint committees regarding the number of security personnel or other members of the presidential delegation traveling to Mogadishu. Claims suggesting that such matters were agreed upon are baseless and entirely false.
The Jubbaland Government remains committed to continuing its efforts toward achieving a lasting solution to the outstanding issues and to ensuring the success of the Consultative Conference that had been scheduled. However, these actions are creating serious security risks and raise legitimate questions about whether the Federal Government can be regarded as a responsible and reliable partner.
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