The Somali federal government has firmly rejected the recent re-election of Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe as the leader of Jubaland, labeling the process illegal and unconstitutional. Officials announced plans to pursue legal action against the election, which they claim violated both national laws and prior agreements between federal and regional administrations.
During a Council of Ministers meeting in Mogadishu, federal authorities outlined several key concerns. They accused the electoral process in Kismayo of breaching established procedures and highlighted irregularities, including the composition of the electoral commission and the selection of participants. Officials argued that the electoral commission lacked neutrality, as it was allegedly appointed by Madobe himself. Additionally, they deemed the method for choosing voters unlawful and inconsistent with previous political agreements.
The government referenced Article 70 of the Jubaland Constitution, which limits a president to two terms, asserting that Madobe’s third term is illegitimate. Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre criticized Madobe for prioritizing personal ambitions over Somalia’s unity and for violating a May 2023 National Consultative Council agreement. That agreement, signed by federal and regional leaders, called for transitioning to a “one person, one vote” electoral system.
The Somali Attorney General has been directed to challenge the election in the Supreme Court and seek its nullification. Legal action is also planned against Madobe for breaching electoral and political accords.
Madobe secured his third term on Monday, winning 55 votes from Jubaland lawmakers. His closest competitor, Faisal Mohamed Mataan, received 16 votes, while Abubakar Abdi Hassan garnered four.
Supporters of Madobe argue that the election adhered to Jubaland’s constitution and represented the will of the region’s population. However, critics accuse him of exploiting his influence to manipulate the process and maintain power.
This dispute underscores the strained relations between Somalia’s federal government and its regional states. The tensions between Mogadishu and Kismayo threaten to prolong political instability at a time when the nation faces pressing challenges, including ongoing security threats and efforts to strengthen governance.