The Jubaland State cabinet warned the Federal Government of Somalia of “illegal interference” in its territories, especially the volatile Gedo region. The warning was issued during a ministerial meeting chaired by President Ahmed Mohamed Islam on October 10, 2025. Cabinet members condemned the federal authorities’ “unconstitutional and illegal interference,” saying it could spark a major conflict and cause heavy losses.
The dispute centers on Gedo, a strategic area within Jubaland where control over administration and electoral processes has long been contested between the state and federal governments. Relations between Jubaland, led by President Ahmed Madobe, and the Federal Government, headed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, have historically been strained. The accusation comes amid broader political and security challenges in Somalia, including a major military offensive against the Al Shabaab militant group. Critics argue that the federal campaign blurs the line between counter‑terrorism operations and political maneuvering, leading states like Jubaland to view the actions as an overreach that threatens their constitutional authority.
In addition to the warning, the Jubaland cabinet approved several internal measures. It passed the Jubaland Health Professionals Act and adopted the 2026 Annual Budget, valued at over $67 million. These steps illustrate a dual strategy of confronting external pressure while strengthening internal administration.
Tensions over Gedo have previously led both sides to deploy forces and support rival administrations, creating direct security implications. Instability or infighting among formal security forces could generate a vacuum for Al Shabaab to exploit. The strongly worded statement from the Jubaland cabinet marks a significant escalation in the political dispute with the Federal Government. By labeling federal actions “illegal” and warning of potential conflict, President Madobe is drawing a firm line over regional autonomy.
This development threatens to disrupt the fragile security equilibrium in southern Somalia and challenges the federal government’s authority, highlighting deep‑seated tensions within Somalia’s federal structure. The international community, which heavily backs the Federal Government, is likely to be concerned about this new rift at a critical moment in the fight against Al Shabaab.
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