Somalia’s Galmudug hits back at ASWJ accusations

The minister’s remarks come after the spiritual leader of ASWJ Moalim Mohamud has accused Galmudug and the Somali Government of plotting an offensive against Guriel in Galgadud last month.

News Keydmedia Online
8 November 2021

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Galmudug state has challenged Ahlu Sunna's accusations that it is fueling another bloodshed in the region after failing to open talks to end the dispute that led to the renewed conflict.

Ahmed Shire Falagle, Galmudug’s minister of information said they are not ready for dialogue over power-share with the armed Sufi group as there is a legitimate administration already in place.

"At first hand, we did not initiate dialogue. We are dealing with the youths ASWJ has brainwashed who were misled with a wrong ideology and taken to the battleground,” said the minister.

Galmudug insists it will continue the fight against ASWJ as long as they reject calls to lay down the arms and denounce violence in the regional states which were at war with Al-Shabaab, Al-Qaeda’s ally.

The minister’s remarks come after the spiritual leader of ASWJ Moalim Mohamud has accused Galmudug and the Somali Government of plotting an offensive against Guriel in Galgadud last month.

Dozens of people were killed and many more were injured in the fighting, and thousands fled their homes during the three-day battle between ASWJ and the allied troops who are now in full control.

ASWJ retreated to nearby villages, where they are regrouping and planning possible attacks if the efforts to begin talks with Galmudug end in failure, according to the sources within the Somali Federal State.

KEYDMEDIA English