MOGADISHU, (HAN) — The planned trip of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to Kismayo, originally scheduled for Friday, has been delayed amid rising political tensions between the federal government and the Jubaland administration.
The advance delegation from the presidency and the presidential security forces, expected to reach Kismayo yesterday, has not traveled. The delay is reportedly due to the non-implementation of preliminary measures necessary for the President’s trip. Villa Somalia is also expected to issue a statement regarding the position on Ahmed Madobe’s term in office, a matter that has sparked political disagreement.
Jubaland has requested that discussions in Kismayo should not include debates on the legitimacy of Ahmed Madobe’s election. This condition reportedly emerged after a meeting between Ahmed Madobe and Puntland President Said Deni, and it has become an obstacle to the President’s visit.
Sources close to the matter indicate that Jubaland’s leader is not yet ready to meet with the President. It is possible that only Ahmed Madobe will travel to Kismayo after Monday, which would disrupt the original schedule.
Although President Hassan Sheikh has expressed his desire to make the trip, Ahmed Madobe continues to insist on his conditions.
