Jubaland warns Somalia risks authoritarianism amid power centralisation

KISMAYO, Somalia - The Jubaland state has called upon the international community to chip in and save Somalia from plunging into 'dictatorship' while citing recent political developments that greatly undermine' federalism within the country.

The administration under Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of authoritarianism, arguing that Villa Somalia is micromanaging national issues that require consensus from stakeholders before implementation.

Jubaland has previously questioned the intent behind constitutional changes, arguing that they are existential threat to national unity. Hassan Sheikh is pushing for direct polls and imperial presidency which Jubaland and the opposition insist would lead to unchecked powers and privileges.

The actions by Hassan Sheikh, Jubaland said in a statement, promotes centralism which has traditionally triggered regional factions and divisions in the country. The approach, the state says, undermines federalism.

“This is a critical moment for Somalia. The federal system is under threat, and we must act now to safeguard the democratic gains we have made,” the statement said.

Jubaland's warning comes amid escalating tensions between Somalia’s federal government and some regional states over issues including security control, electoral processes, and constitutional reforms.

The electoral process would see the country shift from the clan-based model to universal suffrage, an idea the opposition maintains would erode gains made due to logistical challenges. Opposition leaders have voiced their concerns about the move.

In a statement, the opposition group declared that the National Consultative Council (NCC) has effectively collapsed and been replaced by what they described as a “partisan political body.” Hassan Sheikh used the convention to unveil the Justice and Solidarity Party, which brings together only Hirshabelle, Galmudug and Southwest.

They urged immediate and inclusive consultations involving all major political stakeholders to address the country’s mounting challenges. Hassan Sheikh is also struggling to contain Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants.

The opposition warned against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s alleged attempts to reassert control over the federal member state of Jubbaland, describing the move as a “dangerous power grab” that could further destabilise the fragile federal system in Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE