Tension high in Garowe as gov’t, opposition forces mobilise

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GAROWE: Tension is high today in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland following troops movements as differences between the outgoing administration and the opposition over the upcoming presidential elections intensify.

Multiple sources in the restive town say that the government deployed several unit of the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) which has a closer relationship with embattled President Abdullahi Deni. The opposition is also reported to have mobilised its militia and allied government forces.

Other sources indicate that scores of families have been seen leaving the city amid fear of violence. Over 30 people were killed in June when forces loyal to the government clashed with opposition-backed outfits.

President Deni announced Friday he was pardoning the commander of the Danab Special Forces General Jimaale Takar whom he accused of being being the June skirmishes. Deni has had a frosty relationship with the U.S trained Danab unit and Puntland Security Forces since he came into office in 20189.