By Horn Africa News
KISMAYO – Jubbaland’s regional administration has sharply criticized Somalia’s federal government for abandoning key national priorities, including the fight against al-Shabaab and efforts to maintain national unity.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, Jubbaland accused the federal leadership of prioritizing “short-term political interests” over security and governance, warning that such actions are eroding public trust.
“The salvation of this country lies in national unity and leadership that takes responsibility for Somalia’s future,” the statement read.
The regional government voiced support for the Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition of opposition figures led by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, which concluded a two-day meeting in Mogadishu on Sunday. Jubbaland described the Forum’s decisions as crucial for steering the country away from political turmoil.
The Forum has accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of sidelining the fight against al-Shabaab while prioritizing controversial land sales. It urged the federal government to reach an inclusive political settlement and fast-track local elections.
The coalition also called on President Mohamud to reverse what it described as “illegal amendments” to Somalia’s 2012 provisional constitution, warning that the changes risk creating “conflicting legal frameworks” and plunging the nation into deeper instability.
Somalia continues to grapple with long-standing political divisions between the federal government and member states, challenges that have repeatedly undermined efforts to defeat the al-Qaeda-linked extremist group al-Shabaab.
