Somali Mainer Returns to East Africa to Pursue Presidency of Jubaland

In 2009, a Somali native resettled in Maine and quickly found his footing. He established a nonprofit dedicated to mental health and wellness in immigrant communities, earned a doctorate in public policy from the University of Southern Maine, and recently launched an aid organization designed to send essential resources to communities in East Africa. Ali’s charitable work led him back to his homeland, Jubaland in southern Somalia, where he witnessed a populace struggling with violence, rampant corruption, and a dire lack of economic prospects.

“But there are so many admirable individuals with noble intentions who yearn for change but lack the means to enact it,” he expressed. This observation ignited a spark in Ali. He envisioned a future for Jubaland filled with hope—one marked by governmental accountability and transparency. He took the initiative to form a new political party and declared his intention to run for president of Jubaland, which is comparable to a U.S. governor’s role.

“If someone like me doesn’t dare to instigate change and unite those who share a similar vision, then who will?” he challenged. To facilitate his mission, Ali relocated to Kenya over the summer, allowing him to engage with leaders from Jubaland and make regular trips back to Somalia. Kenya hosts one of the largest Somali populations outside of Somalia, yet Ali faces travel restrictions in Jubaland due to the insurgent group’s imposing presence.

Ali’s journey echoes a long-standing trend of displaced Somali individuals returning to claim political roles. “This isn’t unusual at all,” pointed out Omar Mahmood, an analyst specializing in East African politics for the International Crisis Group. “Many parliamentarians possess a second passport.” This, he noted, stems from the fact that many in the diaspora have opportunities for political education and training that are often unavailable back home.

However, running for office in Jubaland is fraught with challenges. The region is a stronghold for the militant group Al-Shabaab, whose influence drastically restricts the efficacy of the regional government. Mahmood elaborated on the situation, stating that the current president has maintained power for over a decade, wielding significant influence over government operations and the electoral process.

“The incumbent has total control over the functioning of the government. He will strongly dictate how this election unfolds,” Mahmood affirmed. The timeline and format of the election remain uncertain; originally slated for November, delays are anticipated. Despite an increasing clamor for universal suffrage, Mahmood foresees that clan elders will likely determine the election outcome, through their selection of parliamentary representatives who ultimately choose the president.

In spite of these formidable obstacles, Ali’s campaign has sparked enthusiasm among many in Maine’s Somali community, including Mohamed Khalid. “They’re thrilled that someone like Abdullah, who doesn’t need to put himself on the line, is doing so,” Khalid remarked. A Lewiston native, Khalid co-directs a civic engagement initiative dedicated to communities of color in Maine. He regards Ali not only as a friend but also as a mentor, providing counsel from a distance.

Khalid believes that Ali’s candidacy symbolizes a beacon of hope for a more democratic Somalia. “A place where women and young people are uplifted—where everyone has a voice in community matters,” he explained. As Ali maneuvers through the intricate political landscape of Jubaland, he strives to bridge two distinct worlds. His experiences within the U.S. government revealed to him that accountability and transparency are essential qualities for public servants.

“I aspire to instill these values within my local community in Jubaland,” he stated, acknowledging that the cultural and environmental contexts are vastly different. Ali is realistic about the challenges ahead; he doesn’t delude himself into thinking he alone can dismantle years of instability and ineffective governance. However, he hopes to provide a platform for Somalis yearning for change. Should he not secure victory, Ali intends to remain engaged in Somali politics while spending time in Maine, continuing his mission to advocate for a brighter future.

Abdullahi Ali and Mohamed Khalid shared a moment at the Global Somali Awards Night in Columbus, Ohio, earlier this year. Khalid highlights Ali’s candidacy as a sparkling glimmer of hope for a progressive Somalia.