In a significant development, traditional elders from Somalia’s Jubaland state convened in Mogadishu, throwing their weight behind the federal government’s decision to challenge the recent election in Kismayo and demanding the removal of Ahmed Madobe as Jubaland’s president.
The gathering, attended by elders representing the Gedo, Middle Juba, and Lower Juba regions, unanimously condemned the controversial election that saw Madobe re-elected for another term. The elders emphasized the imperative of stripping Madobe of his position, citing concerns over the integrity of the electoral process and his perceived failure to uphold the interests of Jubaland’s diverse communities.
“Ahmed Madobe has lost all legitimacy, and it is incumbent upon the federal government to remove him from office,” declared Ugaas Mohamed Ugaas Xaashi, a prominent elder from the Sade clan, who spearheaded the meeting. “The people of Jubaland have spoken, and their voices must be heard.”
The elders’ stance reflects the growing tensions between the federal government in Mogadishu and the semi-autonomous Jubaland administration, which has been accused of undermining the principles of the provisional constitution and overstepping its mandate.
For over a decade, Jubaland has grappled with internal power struggles and clan rivalries, with various factions vying for control of the resource-rich region. Madobe’s re-election, marred by allegations of irregularities and voter intimidation, has only exacerbated the existing divisions.
“Ahmed Madobe has lost all credibility,” said Sultan Ahmed Hassan, another influential elder. “His actions in Kismayo are well-documented, and he has no legal or moral grounds to continue leading Jubaland.”
The elders’ call for Madobe’s removal comes on the heels of the federal government’s decision to challenge the election results in court, further escalating the political crisis in the region.
As tensions mount, concerns are growing over the potential for conflict and instability in Jubaland, which could have far-reaching implications for the broader security situation in Somalia.
The federal government’s response to the elders’ demands will be closely watched, as it seeks to strike a delicate balance between asserting its authority and avoiding a confrontation that could further destabilize the region.
Analysts warn that the Jubaland crisis could undermine Somalia’s fragile democratic transition and efforts to establish a unified, stable, and inclusive governance structure.
