Interclan clashes continue to bedevile Somalia, as at least seven people were killed in inter-clan clashes in a village near Dhusamareb, Galmudug State.
The fierce fighting took place in Hananbuure village, about 45 kilometers from Dhusamareb. Residents report that tensions between two tribal militias remain in the area.
Traditional elders have begun efforts to restore normalcy. The new inter-clan fighting in the Galgadud region coincides with ongoing heavy clashes in the Middle Shabelle region, which have resulted in at least ten deaths in the last two weeks.
On Sunday, Somali Defense Minister Abdikhadir Mohamed Nur Jama accused al-Shabab of instigating inter-clan conflicts throughout the country.
According to the Minister on Sunday, the organization is investing huge sums in igniting disputes in freed regions as a ploy to divert government and local forces’ attention away from military operations against them.
As well, President Hassan Sheikh met Friday with traditional elders and religious leaders in Adale, where over 50 people lost their lives in clan clashes.
Inter-clan conflicts have historically been a source of instability in Somalia, with proponents vying for control of geopolitics, resources, and, at times, land use.
The fighting led to the overthrow of dictator Siad Barre in 1991. Since 1991, thousands of people have died in inter-clan conflicts, and millions have been displaced as a result of political unrest.
