Somalia blocks Puntland & Jubbaland security forces from landing in Mogadishu

The Federal Government of Somalia has stopped planes carrying security forces for the Puntland and Jubbaland leaders from landing in Mogadishu. Officials from Puntland and Jubbaland confirmed the Federal Government prevented the planes, which were carrying troops and advance teams, from reaching the capital. The two planes returned to Kismaayo and Garoowe. The move has raised concerns that it could disrupt a planned meeting between the Federal Government and regional states to discuss the elections. Somalia’s government said it is concerned that military planes arriving at Aden Adde Airport could create a false perception about the security situation in Mogadishu. Opposition technical committees expressed disappointment over the decision. They accused Villa Somalia of trying to find reasons to derail the meeting it organized. Officials from Puntland and Jubbaland are expected to issue statements regarding the Federal Government’s decision.