Somalia: – “Shadows of Conflict: The Plight of Prisoners of War in the Battle of Goojacade and the Path to Peace”

Somalia: – “Shadows of Conflict: The Plight of Prisoners of War in the Battle of Goojacade and the Path to Peace”

“Shadows of Conflict: The Plight of Prisoners of War in the Battle of Goojacade and the Path to Peace”

Photo@Courtesy of Las Anod Photographer.

“Shadows of Conflict: The Plight of Prisoners of War in the Battle of Goojacade and the Path to Peace”

Introduction

On August 25, 2023, the forces of the SSC-Khatumo administration secured a decisive victory in their ongoing conflict with Somaliland, capturing the strategic military base of Goojacade on the outskirts of Lasanood. This victory, achieved after a swift battle lasting less than four hours, not only dismantled Somaliland’s military stronghold but also exposed the tragic human cost of the conflict. With the capture of additional positions in Maraaga and the Goja’adde base, a significant number of Prisoners of War (POWs) were taken by both sides.

However, reports emerging from the aftermath of this battle reveal grave violations of international law concerning the treatment of these POWs. This report examines the alleged ill-treatment of POWs, including acts of torture and extrajudicial killings, and highlights the urgent need for adherence to international humanitarian law (IHL). It also offers actionable recommendations to prevent further escalation and lay the groundwork for reconciliation.

Human Rights Violations: Treatment of POWs

Ill-Treatment of POWs

Credible reports indicate that POWs captured during the Goojacade battle have faced appalling conditions, including:

• Physical and Psychological Torture: Detainees have reportedly been subjected to beatings, psychological abuse, and harsh interrogation methods designed to break their spirit.

• Degrading and Inhumane Treatment: Some captives were paraded publicly as trophies of war, violating their inherent dignity.

• Denial of Basic Needs: Many POWs were deprived of adequate food, water, and medical attention, exacerbating their suffering.

These actions starkly contravene the Geneva Conventions, which mandate the humane treatment of all individuals captured during armed conflicts.

Torture and Extrajudicial Killings

The most alarming allegations involve the torture and execution of some POWs by both SSC-Khatumo and Somaliland forces. Instances of summary executions not only constitute war crimes but also deepen the cycle of retaliation, increasing hostilities and undermining the potential for peace.

The Legal and Moral Imperative

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights

The treatment of POWs is governed by IHL, particularly the Geneva Conventions, which stipulate that:

• POWs must be treated humanely at all times, with respect for their life and dignity.

• Torture, cruel treatment, and acts of violence or intimidation are strictly prohibited.

• Adequate food, shelter, and medical care must be provided.

By disregarding these principles, both sides risk international condemnation and the erosion of moral authority. Adherence to IHL is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative to preserve human dignity amidst conflict.

The Path to Peace

Maltreatment of POWs creates deep-seated resentment, prolonging conflicts and hindering peacebuilding efforts. Addressing these violations is essential to:

• Prevent further escalation and retaliatory violence.

• Build trust between conflicting parties.

• Lay the foundation for dialogue and reconciliation.

Recommendations for Action

To address the plight of POWs and foster peace, the following steps are recommended:

1. Immediate POW Exchange

An urgent, transparent exchange of POWs must be facilitated to de-escalate tensions. This exchange would demonstrate goodwill and serve as a confidence-building measure between the SSC-Khatumo administration and Somaliland.

2. Role of the International Red Cross Committee (ICRC)

The ICRC should take the lead in mediating a POW exchange and ensuring compliance with international standards. Specifically, the ICRC should:

• Engage clan elders, religious scholars, and civil society organizations (CSOs) from both sides to mediate and oversee the process.

• Monitor the conditions of detained combatants to prevent further violations.

• Provide training to armed groups on IHL and the rights of POWs.

3. Accountability for Violations

Both SSC-Khatumo and Somaliland authorities must:

• Investigate allegations of torture and killings of POWs.

• Prosecute individuals responsible for these grave breaches of IHL.

• Commit to transparency in handling the cases of captured combatants.

4. Promotion of Dialogue and Reconciliation

Long-term peace requires addressing the root causes of the conflict. Local and international actors should support initiatives that:

• Facilitate grassroots-level dialogue involving traditional leaders, women’s groups, and youth representatives.

• Promote coexistence through community-driven peacebuilding programs.

• Strengthen governance and rule of law to prevent further outbreaks of violence.

5. Capacity Building for Armed Groups

To prevent future violations, both sides should undergo mandatory training programs on:

• The principles of IHL and human rights.

• The proper treatment of detainees during and after conflicts.

The Role of the International Community

The international community, particularly human rights organizations, has a critical role in addressing the ongoing conflict. Organizations like the ICRC, United Nations, and African Union must prioritize:

• Facilitating dialogue between the parties.

• Providing humanitarian aid to affected communities.

• Monitoring and reporting on human rights abuses to ensure accountability.

Taken-all-together; The events following the battle of Goojacade underscore the urgent need for both SSC-Khatumo and Somaliland forces to adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law. The mistreatment of POWs represents not only a violation of legal norms but also a missed opportunity to foster goodwill and lay the groundwork for peace.

Respecting the dignity of POWs is a test of the humanity of those involved in the conflict. Immediate action—through a POW exchange, accountability for violations, and dialogue—is essential to break the cycle of violence and pave the way for sustainable peace.

The international community, particularly the ICRC, must act decisively to facilitate these measures. Involving grassroots actors, such as clan elders and CSOs, in the process will ensure that solutions are rooted in the cultural and social fabric of the region, increasing the likelihood of long-term success.

“In times of war, it is how we treat the vulnerable, even our enemies, that defines the character of our struggle.”

——- End ——-

– Report compiled and published by the Coalition of Somali Human Rights Defenders CSHRD

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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