Jubbaland’s Parliament Chooses Leaders Amidst Federal Government’s Dismissal of Election Process

Kismayo (AX) — In a dramatic turn of events, Jubaland’s parliament proceeded with its leadership election on Thursday in Kismayo. This move came despite clear disapproval from the federal government, which has rejected the current electoral process in the region.

Abdi Mohamed Abdirahman clinched the Speaker’s position for a third term, securing a decisive 65 votes. His rival, Ismail Abdi Keerow, managed to gather only seven votes, according to the Interim Speaker Sheikh Abdi Yusuf Ali. This victory strengthens Abdirahman’s bond with President Ahmed Madobe, suggesting a firm alliance between Jubaland’s legislative and executive powers.

Hirad Ismail Mohamed emerged as the First Deputy Speaker with 56 votes to his name, while Mahad Mohamed Ahmed only garnered 18. Meanwhile, the position of Second Deputy Speaker was claimed by Abdi Baley Hussein, who earned 51 votes, as opposed to Abdirashid Ali Mohamud’s 22.

“Today’s elections are a reflection of our unwavering dedication to bolstering democratic principles in Jubaland,” remarked Interim Speaker Sheikh Abdi Yusuf Ali.

The jubilation felt in certain quarters, however, was contrasted by criticism from Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre. He dismissed the entire electoral process as unlawful, accusing President Madobe of being driven by self-interest. Barre also invoked Article 70 of the Jubaland Constitution, which restricts presidents to a maximum of two terms, and thereby classifies Madobe’s attempts at re-election as unconstitutional.

Turbulent times lie ahead, as tensions have flared following Madobe’s conspicuous absence at a recent National Consultative Council (NCC) gathering in Mogadishu. In his usual assertive manner, Madobe has been demanding the inclusion of Northeastern State and SSC Khatumo in election dialogues, showing sympathy with Northeastern State’s continuing snub of the NCC due to ongoing wrangles with the federal authorities.

This political kerfuffle is a testament to the intricate and often fractious interplay of relationships between regional and national governments, where power dynamics and constitutional interpretations frequently collide. As Jubaland embarks on this new chapter, the spotlight remains on how these developments shape the broader political landscape in Somalia.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring