Explained: The Federal Government and Jubbaland’s Political Dispute on Election Reform in Somalia
The capital of Somalia, Mogadishu, is becoming a hotbed of political strife as a contentious tussle unfolds between the federal government and the southern state of Jubbaland over electoral reforms. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, clearly understanding the stakes, called an urgent cabinet meeting on Sunday. In the spotlight is a heated debate with Jubbaland dismissing federal election changes in favor of their own regional autonomy.
The central conflict revolves around the federal authorities’ ambition to enact a direct electoral system. Essentially, this plan aims to shift Somalia from an age-old clan-based, indirect voting setup to a one-person, one-vote methodology. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud champions this revamp, perceiving it as crucial for Somalia’s democratic journey and empowering citizens with the right to choose their representatives. But in sharp contrast, President Ahmed Madobe of Jubbaland remains defiant, opposing what he sees as an overt move to consolidate power in Mogadishu, meddling with regional independence, and overstepping local governance.
Madobe’s skepticism isn’t subtle. Over the weekend, he inaugurated a seven-person State Independent Committee for Borders and Elections, reclaiming Jubbaland’s right to self-regulate its elections sans federal interference. But the federal Ministry of Interior wasn’t too jazzed about this. In fact, they quickly labeled the new committee “illegitimate,” warning that such unchecked actions threaten to unravel the delicate federal fabric of the nation and stir unrest.
The opposition in Jubbaland didn’t hold back either. They’ve outrightly snubbed the formation of this electoral commission, going as far as vowing to conduct their own elections in Kismayo if their prerequisites aren’t heeded.
Jubbaland, in a bold move, chose to cease all cooperation with Mogadishu. They cite their interpretation of constitutional doctrine and argue that safeguarding regional governance from federal encroachment is paramount. Concerns were notably raised about the potential hazards posed to local security and governance ventures due to federal disruptions.
Adding to the drama, the federal government cast aspersions on the legitimacy of Madobe himself. They’ve insisted that his leadership term officially concluded in August 2023, sparking further controversy.
In this charged climate, the situation in Lower Juba is precarious. Reports suggest that federal forces withdrew from key posts crucial in the standoff with Al-Shabaab. Jubbaland officials have expressed alarm that areas like Kismayo are now more exposed to insurgent advances due to these retractions, fueling anxiety that security might nosedive amidst the political discord.
Amidst mounting pressure and rising stakes, Prime Minister Barre is prepping to make his way to Kismayo. His goal? To pave the way for resolution through upfront dialogue, hoping to quell the storm before it spirals out of control.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
