Somalia Faces Rising Tensions Over Federal Plans to Reshape Jubaland Leadership

Somalia’s federal government faces criticism over plans to install a new Jubaland administration in Gedo, raising fears of political instability and conflict in the region.

Somalia’s federal government is facing growing criticism after reports emerged of plans to establish a new administration in the Gedo region, potentially sidelining the current Jubaland leadership headed by Ahmed Madobe.

Political analysts and local leaders have warned that the move could deepen instability in an already fragile region. Khairto Ali Hassan, a prominent Gedo politician, told Shabelle TV that imposing a federal-aligned administration risks sparking prolonged conflict. “It is unacceptable for the federal government to impose a new administration by using politicians from the region against their own people,” she said. “This path will only lead to chaos. Dialogue must be prioritised.”

The federal government has yet to issue an official response to the criticism. However, sources close to Villa Somalia indicate that behind-the-scenes efforts to form a “federal-aligned” authority in Gedo are continuing. The initiative appears to involve collaboration with local politicians, a tactic critics argue undermines the legitimacy of the current Jubaland administration.

The longstanding dispute between Mogadishu and Jubaland has been a recurring challenge in Somalia’s political landscape. The federal government has previously questioned the legitimacy of regional administrations, while Jubaland officials insist they maintain popular support and legal authority.

Observers fear that if the plan proceeds without broad consultation, the move could trigger fresh clashes, disrupt local governance, and exacerbate insecurity in a region already facing economic and humanitarian pressures.

As Somalia navigates its delicate political balance, the situation in Gedo highlights the ongoing tension between central authority and regional autonomy, underscoring the need for dialogue and compromise to prevent further instability.