The Federal Government of Somalia has declared the election committee formed by Jubbaland’s President Ahmed Madobe as illegal, further straining the political tensions over electoral procedures in the semi-autonomous region. The Ministry of Internal Affairs released a statement emphasizing that the government would not recognize any electoral process conducted by this committee. This move aligns with the National Consultative Council’s previous directive to adopt a direct “one person, one vote” system to replace the traditional indirect elections managed through clan elders.

President Madobe, whose term ended in August 2023, had recently initiated the committee to oversee indirect elections in Jubbaland, which contradicts the NCC’s push for a unified and direct electoral system. This development has ignited discussions on the balance of power between Somalia’s federal government and its regional administrations, highlighting the complexities of governance in a nation where regional autonomy often intersects with central oversight. Jubbaland’s strategic significance, especially with the port of Kismayo, adds to the high stakes of the current standoff.

Public opinion is divided, with some supporting the federal government’s stance for electoral consistency nationwide, while others advocate for Jubbaland’s autonomy to control its internal processes. Analysts warn that political discord could embolden al-Shabaab to exploit vulnerabilities and escalate regional instability, posing a threat to Somalia’s state-building efforts.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has urged dialogue and adherence to the NCC’s agreement to facilitate a transparent and unified election. However, with President Madobe’s administration determined to proceed with its plans, the road to a peaceful resolution remains uncertain, potentially opening doors for further political or legal disputes. The situation is closely monitored by international stakeholders, given its implications for regional security and stability.