MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali government has summoned Kenya’s ambassador to Mogadishu following Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe’s unexpected departure to Kenya on Friday. The move has heightened tensions between the federal government and the semi-autonomous Jubaland state, exposing deeper divisions over governance and regional autonomy. Madobe’s trip comes despite federal travel restrictions imposed on Jubaland leaders, sparking concerns about adherence to Somalia’s central authority and highlighting ongoing political frictions.

The federal government introduced the restrictions after Madobe’s controversial re-election to a third term in November last year, a decision that deepened the rift between Mogadishu and Jubaland. Despite the ban, Madobe left Kismayo aboard a private plane, prompting swift reactions from Somali authorities. Mogadishu’s decision to summon the Kenyan ambassador reflects its dissatisfaction with Kenya’s perceived role in the unfolding situation and signals Somalia’s intent to address the matter diplomatically while affirming its sovereignty.

Criticism of the federal government’s stance was voiced by Mohamed Ali Omar, an MP representing Jubaland in Somalia’s House of the People. “It is unfair to single out Jubaland’s people with these restrictions,” Omar remarked, questioning the government’s commitment to democratic principles such as universal suffrage. He also congratulated Madobe on his journey, underscoring the regional pride and autonomy aspirations that fuel ongoing disagreements between Somalia’s central government and its federal states.

These developments occur against the backdrop of Somalia’s broader push for one-person, one-vote elections—a move aimed at strengthening democratic governance but which has faced resistance from some regional leaders, including Madobe.