Ahmed Madobe Defends His Re-election, Calls for Talks With Somali Govt

KISMAYO, Somalia - Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe fired back at the federal government of Somalia authorities, insisting that his election victory for the third term was valid, adding that he could only negotiate to de-escalate tensions.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his team have expressed displeasure in the manner Jubaland conducted elections, arguing that Somalia was ripe for direct elections. Madobe won in an indirect poll which was widely opposed by the establishment in Mogadishu.

While giving his speech on Monday, Madobe maintained that he remains the legitimate leader of Jubaland, and was quick to slam Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, whom he accuses of betrayal.

"Hassan Sheikh [Somali President] reminds Jubaland of his 2013 actions. I am the legitimate President of Jubaland and no one else holds that title. I only welcome dialogue,” said Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe.

“Therefore, Mr. President, it is deeply unfortunate that the individual we once entrusted with an MP position, who later ascended to the role of Prime Minister, has now become a mere instrument in the efforts to undermine and destabilize Jubaland,” he added, referring to Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who hails from the region.

Barre, who for many years worked with Madobe, claimed the Jubaland leader usurped powers contrary to the law which has since been passed, adding that the electoral exercise in Jubaland was deeply flawed and amounts to 'self coronation'.

In a stern rebuke, Barre urged regional forces to refrain from interfering in political affairs, warning that any military action by Madobe to assert his authority would be deemed a criminal act. Federal troops have been sighted in several areas around Jubaland including in El-Wak and Raskamboni.

Madobe secured the third term having garnered 55 votes out of the 75 regional MPs who participated. Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed is one of the national leaders who has acknowledged the victory while questioning Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s push for a one-person one-vote model.

GAROWE ONLINE