The Somali federal government has ordered the withdrawal of its troops from the Lower Juba region following clashes with forces from the semi-autonomous state of Jubbaland.
The conflict erupted after Jubbaland held regional elections without the approval of the federal government.
Mogadishu had sent troops to the region to prevent the elections from taking place, but Jubbaland forces resisted the move.
To avoid further bloodshed, the Somali government decided to withdraw its troops from the area.
The decision comes as the country grapples with multiple security challenges, including the ongoing fight against the al-Shabaab militant group.
The withdrawal of federal troops could potentially escalate tensions between the federal government and Jubbaland.
Both sides have accused each other of violating the country’s constitution and undermining the federal system.