KISMAYO, (HAN) – Somalia’s Federal President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, arrived in Kismayo, the capital of the Lower Jubba region, today to hold a high-stakes meeting with Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, widely known as Ahmed Madobe.
The visit comes amid rising political tension between the two leaders, stemming from disputes over the formation of the Electoral Commission and the constitutional review process. These disagreements have previously sparked political accusations and public confrontations, widening the divide between the federal government and the Jubbaland administration.
Officials described the meeting as a critical step toward conflict resolution. The talks include a diplomatic delegation from Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, and Ethiopia, countries playing key roles in mediating between the parties. Kenyan intelligence officials confirmed that Nuradin Haji, head of Kenya’s National Intelligence Service, is among those present.
This is the first face-to-face encounter between the two leaders since the National Consultative Council meeting in October 2024.
While the official outcome of the discussions has not yet been announced, both sides face strong pressure to reach a political agreement that could pave the way for greater stability in Somalia.
