Somalia Federal Government and Jubbaland Set for Crucial Talks in Kismayo

MOGADISHU, (HAN) – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is scheduled to meet Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, also known as Ahmed Madobe, this week in Kismayo for talks described as highly sensitive and potentially decisive for the federal-regional relationship, which has significantly deteriorated in recent months.

Over the past year, tensions between Jubbaland and Villa Somalia have centered on election disputes, administration of the Gedo region, and alleged federal interference in Jubbaland’s internal affairs. These disagreements have led to political sanctions, ongoing mistrust, and at times security tensions approaching military levels.

Jubbaland’s Demands

Sources indicate that Jubbaland has submitted a set of key conditions for meaningful dialogue, including:

1. That last year’s Jubbaland elections are not questioned or discussed.
2. Removal of all political and economic sanctions imposed during the dispute.
3. Full cessation of federal interference in the Gedo region.
4. Annulment of the court ruling against President Ahmed Madobe.

Federal Government’s Proposals

Villa Somalia has outlined its own conditions for Jubbaland to consider:

1. Recognition of the Jubbaland administration as an interim government with a fixed term.
2. Support from Jubbaland and other regional states for a proposed two-year extension by the federal government.
3. Holding local council elections in Jubbaland as scheduled by Villa Somalia.
4. Federal withdrawal from direct administration of the Gedo region, leaving local governance to Jubbaland authorities.

Current Situation

According to sources, initial outcomes of the talks are expected within 48 hours. The meeting in Kismayo will determine both the official timing of the leaders’ engagement and the agenda for discussion.

President Ahmed Madobe remains in Nairobi consulting with political allies and international supporters, signaling that Jubbaland intends to assertively present its position during the Kismayo talks.

Regional actors, including Kenya, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, are reportedly encouraging President Madobe to reconcile with the Somali federal government, highlighting the wider regional stakes in resolving the federal-regional dispute.

Observers note that the Kismayo meeting could be a turning point for federal-regional relations in Somalia and may have broader implications for the country’s political process.