(04 Sep 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – The Ethiopian government has been accused of orchestrating a series of covert operations designed to destabilise Somalia, according to Somali MPs and intelligence sources. These allegations come amidst growing tensions in the region, and concerns over the future of Somalia’s fragile federal system.
MPs from the South West state have claimed that Ethiopia is actively undermining Somalia’s sovereignty, spreading disinformation about the federal government, and stoking tribal divisions. They have pointed to Ethiopia’s alleged efforts to ignite a conflict between the Hawiye and Rahanweyn clans, two of Somalia’s largest and most influential clans.
These claims have gained further traction following recent protests in several South West districts, where demonstrators have openly called for the continued presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia. MPs argue that these protests were engineered by Ethiopia, as part of a wider campaign to sabotage the Somali government’s plans to withdraw all foreign forces from the country by the end of the year.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, some South West MPs have been accused of collaborating with Ethiopia, and even threatening to seek asylum in Ethiopia if their safety is compromised. These MPs have been accused of high treason, and there are fears that their actions could further destabilise the region and embolden Ethiopia’s alleged interference in Somalia’s internal affairs.
Furthermore, there are reports that Ethiopia is also attempting to mobilise communities in Gedo and Hiraan regions to oppose the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops. These efforts, however, have reportedly been met with resistance from local elders, who have refused to be drawn into the controversy surrounding Ethiopia’s military presence in Somalia.
These allegations paint a deeply concerning picture of Ethiopia’s role in Somalia and raise serious questions about the future of the two countries’ bilateral relationship. While Ethiopia has yet to respond to these claims, they are likely further to complicate the already delicate security situation in Somalia. They could have far-reaching consequences for the region as a whole.
Halqabsi News
