KISMAYO, Somalia – Jubaland has cut ties with Somalia’s federal government, following a similar move by Puntland, amid rising tensions over the country’s one-person, one-vote electoral system.
The decision came hours after the Somali government condemned the seven-member election committee appointed by Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe to oversee an indirect leadership election, challenging the national electoral model.
In a statement, Jubaland’s Ministry of Interior accused the Federal Government of blocking its elections, undermining the constitutional process, and attempting to justify unlawful control over agencies. The Ministry also criticized the Federal Government for destabilizing Jubaland’s security, failing to support anti-Al Shabab operations, and neglecting displaced populations.
The ministry said it will maintain its decision until the Federal Government fully adheres to the Constitution, respects Jubaland’s will, and addresses ongoing constitutional issues. The state reaffirmed its right to manage its electoral process under both the Federal and Jubaland Constitutions.
Jubaland also warned against any political interference, particularly by outside forces or African Union peacekeeping missions whose legal mandate is focused on counterterrorism and security stabilization, rather than political influence or governance.
Political analysts said the decision by Jubaland and Puntland is a major blow to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s push for such a popular election to take place in Somalia.
They also pointed out that the irony of President Mohamud backing this reform now, after he opposed similar proposals from his predecessor, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo. At the time, Farmaajo was locked in political battles with both Ahmed Madobe of Jubaland and Said Deni of Puntland.
Now, President Mohamud finds himself in Farmaajo’s shoes, advocating for popular elections while Jubaland plans to hold an indirect election, with support from Puntland and other opposition figures. The very states Mohamud once supported in their opposition to Farmaajo’s government are now opposing his own.
