Thursday November 21, 2024
Kismayo (HOL) — Jubaland’s parliament elected its leadership on Thursday in Kismayo despite the federal government rejecting the ongoing Jubbaland electoral process.
Abdi Mohamed Abdirahman was re-elected Speaker for a third term, securing 65 votes against challenger Ismail Abdi Keerow, who received seven votes, according to Interim Speaker Sheikh Abdi Yusuf Ali.
A close ally of President Ahmed Madobe, Abdirahman’s re-election consolidates the alignment between the parliament and the executive branch in Jubbaland.
Hirad Ismail Mohamed won the position of First Deputy Speaker with 56 votes, while Mahad Mohamed Ahmed secured 18 votes. Abdi Baley Hussein was elected Second Deputy Speaker, receiving 51 votes against Abdirashid Ali Mohamud’s 22 votes.
“Today’s elections reflect our commitment to strengthening Jubaland’s democratic processes,” said Interim Speaker Sheikh Abdi Yusuf Ali.
Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre has dismissed the Jubaland electoral process as illegitimate, accusing President Madobe of pursuing personal ambitions. Barre reiterated that Article 70 of the Jubaland Constitution limits presidents to two terms, rendering Madobe ineligible for re-election.
Tensions have escalated following Madobe’s withdrawal from a recent National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting in Mogadishu. Madobe called for Puntland and SSC Khatumo to be included in electoral discussions, aligning with Puntland’s ongoing boycott of the NCC amid disputes with the federal government.
