Sunday November 10, 2024
Kismayo (HOL) — Jubbaland Regional State administration suspended cooperation with the federal government, citing federal non-compliance with Somalia’s constitution and disrespecting Jubbaland’s autonomy.
In a statement released Sunday by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Jubbaland, the administration criticized the federal government for obstructing Jubbaland’s electoral process and hindering anti-al-Shabaab operations within the region.
“The government of Jubbaland declares that it has suspended the cooperative relationship with the Federal Government of Somalia until it complies with the Constitution of the country, respecting the wishes of the people of Jubbaland,” the statement read.
The move follows Jubbaland’s formation of a seven-member independent electoral committee, appointed by President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe to oversee the region’s election preparations. On Sunday, the Jubbaland State Parliament formally approved the committee’s establishment.
The federal Ministry of Internal Affairs swiftly condemned Jubbaland’s electoral committee, labeling it illegal and threatening Somalia’s democratic integrity. The ministry called on Jubbaland to adhere to the National Consultative Council (NCC) agreements, which mandate Somalia’s unified, universal suffrage electoral framework.
Despite federal disapproval, the Himilo Qaran political party, led by former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, has publicly supported Jubbaland’s decision, backing President Madobe’s electoral committee as a step toward preserving regional autonomy.
