Mogadishu – Jubaland Vice President Muhammad Siad Adan has firmly denied reports that Ethiopian forces under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) will remain in Jubaland after the ATMIS mandate expires at the end of this year.
Local media reported that the Jubaland government opposed the departure of Ethiopian forces, suggesting they would stay beyond their mandate. In an interview with local radio in Mogadishu, Vice President Adan refuted these claims, stating that both Jubaland State and the Federal Government of Somalia are collaborating to enhance security measures.Adan emphasized that plans are underway for Somali forces to replace the ATMIS troops once their mandate concludes. He also called on the media to ensure the accuracy of their information to prevent the spread of misinformation.
This is not the first time Vice President Adan and other Jubaland officials have denied reports from Garowe Online regarding the continued presence of Ethiopian forces in Somalia.