Jubaland presidential hopeful Dr. Abdullahi Ali has sharply criticized regional President Ahmed Madobe, arguing that his rule lacked democratic legitimacy and that political shifts in Kismayo signal the end of Madobe’s influence.
Dr. Abdullahi said Madobe had long relied on clan-based rhetoric to cling to power but that such tactics have now failed to gain traction.
He cited recent remarks attributed to Madobe, portraying them as desperate attempts to rally support by warning different clans of perceived threats from others.
“Ahmed Madobe was never democratically elected, and his politics have been built on fear and division,” Dr. Abdullahi said.
“The people of Jubaland deserve a leadership founded on unity, inclusivity, and accountability.”
He said elders who met in Kismayo this week echoed similar concerns, “rejecting divisive narratives and instead calling for the disbandment of forces loyal to Madobe.”
Their resolutions underscored the importance of preventing clan and family-based rifts from undermining Jubaland’s security and cohesion.
Dr. Abdullahi, who has declared his bid for the Jubaland presidency, urged residents and security forces to embrace solidarity in pursuit of peace and the eventual defeat of Al-Shabaab.
“We are on the verge of a significant peaceful transformation,” he said.
“Our unity will bring political change and lead to the liberation of Somalia from Shabaab.”
Recent violence in Jubaland is the latest flare-up in a long-running dispute over political control and the contested 2024 re-election of Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe.
Mogadishu accuses Madobe of inciting violence and undermining federal authority.
The semiautonomous Jubaland State maintains that the federal government is attempting to impose a parallel administration in Gedo through military force.
Both sides have traded accusations of foreign interference, with Mogadishu alleging Kenyan support for Jubaland. Nairobi has repeatedly denied those claims.
