Monday November 18, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre has declared that Jubbaland President Ahmed Madobe is ineligible to run for re-election, citing Article 70 of the Jubbaland Constitution, which limits the President to two terms.
Speaking in Mogadishu on Monday, Barre accused Madobe of pursuing personal interests contrary to the Somali national agenda and violating previously signed agreements. He criticized the ongoing Jubbaland electoral process, labeling it as illegitimate and serving personal ambitions.
"Ahmed Madobe lacks the legality to hold the Jubbaland election. This is illegal, and an illegal act cannot produce a legitimate result," Barre stated.
The Prime Minister also urged Jubbaland's security forces to remain neutral and avoid involvement in political disputes. He warned Madobe against deploying regional state forces for political purposes, emphasizing the potential for serious consequences.
The Jubbaland Electoral and Boundaries Commission recently announced a schedule for the region's parliamentary and presidential elections:
- November 18–19: Announcement of new Jubbaland lawmakers.
- November 20: Opening of applications for parliamentary Speaker candidates.
- November 21: Election of the Parliament Speakers.
- November 25: Jubbaland Presidential election.
Tensions between the federal government and Jubbaland have intensified following Madobe's withdrawal from a recent National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting in Mogadishu. Madobe demanded the inclusion of Puntland and SSC Khatumo in electoral discussions, aligning with Puntland's boycott of the NCC over its disputes with the federal government.