Jubaland's President travels to Kenya amid Somali Govt restrictions 

KISMAYO, Somalia - Ahmed Madobe, the President of Somalia's Jubaland state, embarked on a private jet to Kenya on Saturday, his first international journey since his re-election, which remains unacknowledged by Somalia's central government in Mogadishu.

Madobe's visit to Nairobi is geared towards engaging with diplomats from various nations and international organizations, focusing on pivotal political issues within Somalia. Central to these discussions will be the ongoing friction with the federal government, which has not only questioned Madobe's leadership legitimacy but also intensified due to disagreements over constitutional reforms and electoral processes.

The agenda in Kenya includes exploring avenues for de-escalation in the political standoff, alongside discussing the advancement of infrastructure and social development projects in Jubaland, which are crucial for regional stability and countering threats from Islamist militants like al-Shabab.

Following his talks in Kenya, Madobe is scheduled to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This visit is anticipated to strengthen ties with a key regional player, known for its involvement in Somali politics, providing aid, and supporting security initiatives against terrorism.

The political schism between Jubaland and Somalia's federal government has been exacerbated by recent legislative changes, which Madobe's administration sees as an overreach by Mogadishu, threatening the autonomy of Jubaland. The issuance of an arrest warrant against Madobe by the federal government underscores the depth of this political divide, potentially leading to further legal and political confrontations.

GAROWE ONLINE