MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has summoned three regional leaders for consultations in Mogadishu ahead of his planned visit to Kismayo, where he is expected to resume talks with Jubaland’s administration.
The presidents of Hirshabelle, Galmudug, and Southwest states – Ali Gudlawe, Ahmed Qoorqoor, and Abdiasis Laftagaren – are due to meet President Mohamud to discuss key issues to be raised during the renewed dialogue with Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe.
The previous round of discussions between Mogadishu and Jubaland, mediated by Kenyan officials, collapsed earlier this month only hours after opening in Kismayo.
President Mohamud is said to be seeking a tangible outcome from the upcoming talks, amid reports that the discussions could include a proposal to extend Mr Madobe’s mandate by two years. Such an arrangement would allow him to complete a full term following his controversial re-election last year, which the federal government deemed unconstitutional and non-inclusive.
Sources in Mogadishu suggest the president may also seek reciprocal support from Jubaland for a similar two-year extension of the federal government’s term, which is due to expire in the coming months.
Tensions between Mogadishu and Jubaland have persisted, particularly over the Gedo region, where the federal government has reportedly explored plans to establish a parallel administration. Neighbouring Kenya and Ethiopia have rejected the idea, with Addis Ababa dispatching military and intelligence officials to the border town of Dolow in response.
President Mohamud has since held meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Kenyan President William Ruto, with both discussions largely focused on the Jubaland dispute. Diplomatic sources indicate that no substantial progress was achieved.
Analysts say that even if the federal government and Jubaland reach an understanding, the move could be seen as a political manoeuvre to consolidate support ahead of the 2026 elections rather than a lasting solution to Somalia’s wider federal tensions.
With limited time left in office, President Mohamud faces mounting pressure to deliver a breakthrough. However, observers note that Ahmed Madobe, who has outlasted multiple Somali federal presidents, is likely to remain a central figure in the country’s complex political landscape long after the current administration’s term ends.
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