Tensions Rise as Jubaland and Somali Federal Government Clash Over Madobe’s New Electoral Commission Formation

Jubaland, Somalia, is currently experiencing a whirlwind of political activity. Leading the charge, President Ahmed Madobe has set the stage for the next regional presidential election by unveiling a brand-new electoral commission. This seven-member group holds the significant responsibility of guiding the electoral process, though the exact date for casting votes hasn’t been firmly set.

In a letter dated November 9, President Madobe draws on the constitutional powers bestowed by the Jubaland jurisdiction. “In accordance with the Jubaland State constitution and recognizing the necessity for establishing an independent electoral and boundaries commission, I hereby announce the formation of the Jubaland State Electoral and Boundaries Commission,” he proclaims confidently.

This move underscores an unwavering commitment to Jubaland’s autonomy, especially amid ongoing tussles with federal authorities. Indeed, this decision is Madobe’s bold counter to pressure from Mogadishu, who advocates for a federally orchestrated commission — a major bone of contention between both governments.

But the federal powers weren’t going to stay silent. As the clock chimed midnight, the Federal Ministry of Interior issued a retort, labeling Jubaland’s unilateral commission as rogue while urging local tribes to “stand up and defend their rights.” They also hinted that Madobe’s tenure ended back in August 2023 and has since been propped up merely by political agreements.

Refusing to mince words, the ministry dismissed Madobe’s move to craft “his own re-election committee,” branding it illegal. Meanwhile, the tension in Kismayo, Jubaland’s capital, seems to be ratcheting up. Reports suggesting militia mobilization over the past day paint a worrying picture.

Jubaland’s Ministry of Internal Security didn’t turn a blind eye. Issuing alerts on Friday, they cautioned against any flare-up of violence, urging the security forces to remain vigilant. The focus on stability and public safety couldn’t be more pronounced, especially given the city’s growing apprehension.

Peeking into the recent past, last month wasn’t without its share of drama. President Madobe, since ascending to power after Kenyan forces liberated Kismayo from Al-Shabaab in 2011, withdrew from the National Consultative Forum. A spat with the Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud over election logistics fueled this exit.

Adding salt to the wound, Madobe has firmly opposed the federal proposal of extending his term for another year. He rebuffed the government’s aspirations for a standardized set of elections slated for next year. Oddly enough, while Jubaland resists, most other regions like Southwest State, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug, have given the nod to this extension, even if it meant overstaying their original terms.

Puntland, going its own way, had already shaken off its allegiance to the Mogadishu-centered federal government, opting instead for its elections earlier this year. It seems Somalia’s regional dynamics are as diverse as they are challenging, with Jubaland’s latest electoral drama adding yet another layer to the ongoing narrative.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring