Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s federal government has directed the Attorney General to seek approval from the Supreme Court for the potential arrest of Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe, who was re-elected earlier today.
The move signals escalating tensions between the federal government and the semi-autonomous regional state.
In a statement released shortly after Madobe’s re-election, the Somali cabinet urged the Attorney General to prepare formal charges against what they termed the “former” Jubaland leader.
Officials argue that Madobe’s re-election process was unconstitutional and marred by irregularities.
“The Attorney General has been tasked with drafting legal charges to present before the court,” the cabinet said in a joint communique, emphasizing the federal government’s authority over regional governance.
However, legal experts note that, while the federal government’s argument may hold legal merit, its ability to enforce such measures is highly questionable.
“Theoretically, Mogadishu has a case,” said legal analyst Abdullahi Osman.
“But in practice, federal authorities lack the jurisdiction and enforcement mechanisms to act decisively in Jubaland.”
Meanwhile, Madobe’s re-election through an indirect electoral process stands in contrast to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s initiative to implement a universal suffrage system nationwide.
Madobe secured his third term on Monday, with 55 out of 75 parliamentary votes, despite the federal government’s push for direct elections.
The federal government has expressed concerns over Jubaland’s electoral approach, labeling it as unconstitutional and a hindrance to Somalia’s democratic progress.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre criticized Madobe’s re-election bid, citing term limits outlined in the Jubaland Constitution.
This divergence underscores the ongoing challenges in harmonizing Somalia’s federal and regional governance structures, particularly regarding electoral reforms.
While the federal government advocates for a one-person, one-vote system, regional leaders like Madobe emphasize autonomy and existing constitutional provisions.
Furthermore, the move marks a deepening of the standoff between the federal government and Jubaland, which has long resisted centralization efforts.
Madobe, a key political figure in Somalia’s south, enjoys significant support from local clans and the backing of regional actors.
This latest development comes amid broader challenges for Somalia, including ongoing insecurity and efforts to combat al-Shabaab militants.
Analysts warn that such political infighting could undermine progress toward national reconciliation and state-building efforts.
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