KISMAYO (Kaab TV) – Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) has launched a scathing criticism against Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of obstructing efforts to rebuild trust and consensus with Puntland’s leadership.
Speaking during a regional environmental conference held in Kismayo on Monday, Madobe claimed that President Hassan Sheikh derailed negotiations aimed at reuniting Somalia’s key federal actors around shared national priorities, including constitutional reform and upcoming elections.
“If someone can overstay their mandate, then why did we insist on removing our friend [former president] Farmaajo in 2022?” Madobe asked, questioning what he described as double standards regarding presidential term extensions.
Madobe warned that Somalia is heading in a dangerous direction, saying the risk of communal conflict is higher than ever.
He emphasized that no single Somali leader should impose decisions unilaterally and called for inclusive dialogue.
“We tried to bring Somalis back together for a national conversation on the constitution, elections, and the future of the country. But it ended with the federal leadership insisting, ‘We’re moving ahead regardless,’” he said.
“That attitude is dangerous—you can imagine where it might lead.”
Reflecting on his withdrawal from the October 2024 National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting in Mogadishu, Madobe said he faced repeated rejections when raising concerns about the constitutional process and political inclusion.
“We attempted to gather all sides so we could reach a consensus. But we failed to agree,” he noted. “I raised the issue of inclusivity in constitutional discussions—Somaliland was absent, and Puntland walked away. We needed real dialogue, not exclusion.”
The Jubaland leader also addressed internal political tensions in his own region. He criticized the Jubaland parliament’s decision to extend the presidential term from four to five years, claiming it was made without his consultation.
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Madobe has boycotted NCC meetings since October 2024, deepening the rift between Kismayo and Mogadishu.
That divide widened further following his disputed re-election, which the federal government refused to recognize.
In December, the conflict escalated into an armed confrontation when federal forces deployed into Raskamboni town.
On December 11, Jubaland forces launched a surprise counter-attack, capturing hundreds of federal troops. Over 1,000 federal soldiers reportedly surrendered to Kenyan authorities, effectively halting the federal offensive.