South West State warned airlines in the region, accusing the federal government of using military and civilian aircraft to transport weapons illegally into South West territories.
Officials stated that such flights are arming “unknown hands” and enabling violence against civilians in the region.
“We are aware that recently, both national and private aircraft are being utilised by the government to transport weapons, which are being delivered into unknown hands, intended for the massacre of the people of South West Somalia,” officials said
The state warned that any airline—military or civilian—found involved in the illegal transport of weapons or military forces aimed at destabilising the region would have its operating permits revoked. Civilian passenger aircraft were specifically urged to adhere to international aviation laws.
“Before your licenses are revoked, abide by international aviation laws, which state that civilian aircraft cannot be used to carry weapons for the massacre of Somali people, specifically those in South West,” officials stated.
South West State further accused the federal government of reviving “divide and rule” tactics, claiming that clans were being armed against one another to perpetuate conflict.
“The Federal Government continues its interference, using ‘divide and rule’ strategies to arm clans against each other in South West,” officials said.
Officials warned that the Somali people must recognise what the federal government is doing in the South West regions.
“This is not governance; it is returning us to the past and reopening the wounds of the pain we have endured,” they said. “The people of the South West and all Somalis must remain vigilant regarding this.”Despite federal pressure, South West State reaffirmed its commitment to holding its elections without interference.
“The South West State will never accept any interference or threats from the Federal Government,” officials declared. “Times have changed, and the people have changed. This is no longer the era of inciting people to take up arms against each other.”
The state concluded with a message of resilience: “South West will prevail. Be victorious wherever you are; South West will be successful.”