Suspected Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) has rammed into a hotel in Somalia’s southern port Kismayu.
According to sources, elders, candidates, and lawmakers have had a meeting at As-Aseey Hotel since morning.
Initial reports indicate that the huge explosion caused the vehicle was followed by gunfire.
The As-Aseey Hotel in Kismayo is said to be still under attack although casualties are yet unclear.
Locals say Heavy gunfire exchange could be heard inside the hotel.
In a statement posted on its online media affiliate, Al-Shabaab claimed the responsibility for the attack.
Kismayo town which interim capital of Jubbaland administration is expected to host the upcoming elections.
The selection process of the lawmakers is kicked off a month ahead of the election of the new president in August.
The state assembly will cast votes for the state President who will become the second one since the Jubbaland Administration was formed in 2013.
