Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Abdi Mohamed Abdirahman was re-elected as Speaker of the Jubaland State Parliament in an election held in Kismayo. He secured 65 votes against his competitor, Ismail Abdi Kerow, who garnered seven votes, while three votes were declared invalid. This marks Abdirahman’s third five-year term as Speaker.

The election comes amid growing tensions between Jubaland State and the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). Jubaland’s ongoing electoral process has drawn criticism from International Partners, who have urged a halt to the proceedings.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, International Partners called for constructive dialogue between Jubaland State and the FGS.

“We urge all stakeholders to engage in constructive and inclusive discussions on the electoral process. Jubaland State is urged to return to the NCC for an open discussion of all outstanding issues, and to restore ties with the FGS,” the statement read.

The partners also emphasized the need to refrain from provocations and finalize electoral processes through consensus.

Jubaland State has continued its election process despite calls for suspension, with a presidential election scheduled for November 25. The strained relations between Jubaland and the FGS remain a point of concern for both domestic and international observers.