KISMAYO, Somalia — A deadly clash erupted at the Agan Hotel in Kismayo earlier today, leaving one person dead and two others injured. The confrontation occurred when security guards for opposition candidates attempted to enter the hotel, prompting a shootout with the venue’s security forces. Authorities have since bolstered security throughout the city to prevent further violence.

The incident unfolded on the same day candidates for the upcoming Jubaland presidential election were set to receive their certificates of candidacy. Tensions between troops loyal to

Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe and loyalists of  Senator Ilyas Gaboose, a key challenger, have heightened ahead of the election, raising concerns over the region’s political stability.

Somalia’s Internal Security Minister, Mohamed Ahmed Sheikh Ali denounced the violence, calling it a politically motivated attack. In a public address, he accused forces aligned with President Madobe of targeting independent politicians, including presidential candidate Senator Badal Gabose, and warned regional soldiers against political interference, citing potential legal repercussions.

As the region grapples with political divisions, the incident underscores the fragility of Jubaland’s security situation.