MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to visit the port city of Kismayo in the coming days for the first time in over a year, as part of efforts to resolve a protracted political standoff with Jubaland regional leader Ahmed Mohamed Islam “Madobe.”
The planned visit follows weeks of negotiations mediated by the United Arab Emirates, a key backer of the Jubaland administration. Despite the diplomatic engagement, both sides have yet to reach a final agreement on several contentious issues, including the legitimacy of Madobe’s re-election in late 2024.
According to sources familiar with the talks, President Mohamud has demanded that Madobe annul the results of the disputed 2024 regional election. In return, the federal government is said to be offering a two-year term extension that would allow Madobe to remain in office while fresh elections are organized. However, Jubaland authorities have rejected what they see as federal interference, insisting that the conduct of regional elections is solely within their mandate.
Tensions between the federal government and Jubaland have escalated in recent months, with Madobe accusing President Mohamud of fueling the conflict that led to deadly clashes, including the battle of Ras Kamboni, where federal troops reportedly suffered heavy losses at the hands of Jubaland forces.
Nevertheless, the talks have yielded some early breakthroughs. Both sides have agreed to resume flights between Kismayo and Mogadishu as well as other parts of the country, ending a federal government-imposed ban that had restricted air travel to the region.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s political opposition is also eyeing Kismayo as a strategic stop in their campaign for the 2026 elections. However, their attempts to visit the city have so far been blocked by Jubaland authorities, reportedly at the request of President Mohamud, who is said to be concerned about opposition efforts to court Madobe’s support.
Analysts say the rivalry over Jubaland reflects broader political maneuvering ahead of Somalia’s next electoral cycle, where Madobe’s influence is seen as pivotal.
Despite progress on travel and security arrangements, a final settlement remains elusive, and the stakes are high – not only for the fragile relationship between Mogadishu and Jubaland but for the stability of Somalia’s broader federal system.
Contact us: info@somaliguardian.com
