Jubaland Leader Warns Somali President Against Power Grab Amid 2026 Election Dispute

KISMAYO, Somalia – Jubaland State President Ahmed Madobe sharply criticized Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday, accusing him of promoting policies he previously rejected, highlighting growing political tensions ahead of Somalia’s 2026 elections.

Speaking at the Somali Future Council conference in Kismayo, Madobe described the gathering as a platform to tackle the country’s political challenges and called for governance based on broad consultation rather than concentrated authority.

“No one will accept today what President Hassan rejected yesterday,” Madobe said, warning that Somalia must avoid actions that could destabilize the nation. “We will not allow the country to be destroyed,” local reports said.

Analysts say Madobe’s comments reflect discontent among regional leaders who feel sidelined by policies they view as overly centralized under the federal government. Critics argue that recent decisions in Mogadishu threaten the consensus-based federal arrangements designed to share authority among Somalia’s member states.

Supporters of President Hassan Sheikh maintain that efforts to update governance frameworks, including constitutional reforms, are intended to strengthen unity and pave the way for more inclusive elections. Government officials have dismissed accusations of power grabs as political rhetoric.

The Somali Future Council conference has drawn former presidents, prime ministers, and other senior political figures from across Somalia, signaling heightened attention to governance ahead of the 2026 national elections.

Madobe emphasized that leadership should be based on consensus and shared responsibility, not on one individual holding on to power or monopolizing national resources – a stance likely to resonate with regional administrations concerned about maintaining a balance of authority in the federal system.

GAROWE ONLINE