The Regional Government of Jubaland led by President Ahmed Madobe, has issued a strong condemnation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration, accusing it of irresponsible leadership, constitutional violations, and a dangerous slide towards authoritarianism amidst a severe national security crisis.
Following recent political developments in Mogadishu, Jubaland officials warned that the Federal Government’s actions are undermining national unity and weakening Somalia’s capacity to confront Al Shabaab and other extremist threats.
“The events that unfolded last night in Mogadishu expose the recklessness of the Hassan Sheikh administration,” the statement declared. “Instead of focusing on the clear and present threat of terrorism, the government is preoccupied with consolidating power and reviving a one party system that ignores the federal spirit of our Constitution.”
Jubaland leaders allege that the Federal Government is preparing for a regime reminiscent of Somalia’s past authoritarian systems, an approach they deem illegitimate and unsustainable. They argue that these actions directly contradict the federal and state level agreements that form the foundation of Somalia’s Constitution and governance.
They warned that this not only jeopardizes the fragile unity of the Somali state but also diminishes public morale and the collective resolve to defeat extremist groups, which continue to launch deadly attacks across the country.
The statement also targeted the Somali Federal Parliament, specifically the Upper and Lower Houses, accusing them of abdicating their constitutional responsibilities. “The Parliament has been reduced to a rubber stamp. It no longer functions as a guardian of the Constitution or a check on Government actions,” the statement asserted.
Consequently, Jubaland is calling upon political stakeholders, civil society, and the broader Somali public to take immediate action to safeguard Somalia’s delicate democratic progress. They cautioned that failing to resist these growing authoritarian tendencies could reverse years of hard won achievements and plunge Somalia back into political instability.
“We urge all Somalis to rise and protect our fragile statehood. If we fail to act now, the aspirations of our people and the painstaking efforts of our peacebuilders will be lost,” the statement emphasized.
The Jubaland Government also appealed to the international community and Somalia’s global partners, emphasizing that the country is at a critical juncture and in dire need of support. “There has never been a moment more critical for Somalia than now. The international community must not turn a blind eye. The direction this administration is taking is not only misguided, it is dangerous,” the statement concluded.
As Somalia continues to grapple with an insurgency, manage humanitarian crises, and rebuild state institutions, Jubaland’s accusations highlight widening divisions between the Federal Government and Regional States, divisions that many fear could threaten the country’s fragile peace and stability.