Armed Group Linked to Self-Declared ‘Southeast Somalia’ Administration Enters Marka, Lower Shabelle

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MARKA: An armed group affiliated with the self-declared “Southeast Somalia” administration has entered Marka, the capital of Lower Shabelle region, and raised its flag at key locations in the city, according to local reports.

The group is reported to have taken control of parts of Marka, including the main administrative headquarters. However, the extent of its control and the circumstances surrounding its entry into the city have not been independently confirmed.

The development brings renewed attention to the self-declared Southeast Somalia administration, which emerged in Marka in May 2026, seeking to establish an administration separate from South West State.

The outfit is led by Cumareey Ali Ahmed, who was named its president during its formation. Other figures publicly associated with the administration include Hussein Gacal, who has acted as its spokesman, and Abdullahi Waceys, who has been identified with its presidential liaison structure.

The movement has also been the subject of political controversy over its alleged backing. Senior political figures have previously accused individuals within the federal security establishment of supporting its formation, allegations that have been denied and have not been independently substantiated.

The administration has not received official recognition from either Somalia’s Federal Government or South West State.

The reported entry of its armed supporters into Marka comes amid political and security tensions in Lower Shabelle, a strategically important region connecting Mogadishu with southern Somalia.

There has been no official statement from the Federal Government or South West State confirming the reported takeover, while the current status of government and South West State security forces in the city remains unclear.