Jubaland Presidential Candidates Council Advocates Timely Elections and Political Stability

Nairobi – The Jubaland Presidential Candidates Council have concluded a consultative meeting in Nairobi on Saturday.

The council, led by Presidential Candidate Abdi Ali Rage, addressed pressing political and security concerns in Jubaland State, underscoring the urgent need for lasting solutions.

Mr. Abdi Rage outlined in his address key outcomes that reflect the current political and security challenges in Jubaland State and the need for swift political resolutions.

“The council reiterates the aspiration of the Jubaland people to hold timely elections. We are disappointed that this desire has been ignored by the current administration in Kismaayo,” said Rage.

Jubaland Presidential Candidate Abdi Ali Rage speaks to the Media at a hotel in Nairobi on Saturday. Photo/ GT 

According to Jubaland Presidential Candidates Council, there is growing concern that the administration, led by Ahmed Madobe, is gearing up for a potential extension of their term. 

“Article 70 of the Jubaland constitution stipulates regional presidential elections should be conducted every four years,” he added stressing the next election is due.

The opposition fear establishment of an authoritarian regime in the region in which Ahmed Madobe, who has been ruling Jubaland for more than 12 years, would serve beyond his constitutional tenure.

“With the due date approaching on August 23, 2023, the council will not recognize Ahmed Mohamed Islaam (Madoobe) as president if the deadline passes, categorizing him as the Former President,” said Jubaland Presidential candidate Ali Rage. 

The council called upon the Federal Government of Somalia, IGAD, AU, neighboring countries, and the international community to refrain from acknowledging the current Jubaland administration as legitimate.

The council wants partners to recognize Somalia’s political instability has been exacerbated by the absence of elections. 

Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe is a close ally to the Kenyan government, a former warlord who, with the help of Kenyan troops, pushed Al-Shabab extremists out of their former stronghold in Kismayo in 2012. Photo/ GT

“We are calling for and demanding the immediate organization of free, fair, and timely elections in Jubaland,” said Mr. Rage. 

The need to maintain unity and harmony in Jubaland has been underscored as concerns mount over potential inter-clan conflicts. 

The council has also condemned the restriction of Jubaland youth from joining the Somali National Army (SNA).

A close ally of Somali president Farmaajo, Abdi Ali Rage is leading efforts in hastening plans to ensure Ahmed Madobe is out of power by all means. Photo/ GT 

The candidates have pledged unwavering support for the Federal Government of Somalia, particularly in combating and eradicating militant groups to ensure the safety and prosperity of the nation.

The US, EU, UN, AU and IGAD fear for the stability of the country as it continues to battle a deadly armed uprising by the al-Shabab armed group.