Kismayo(Mogadishu24)-Jubaland State President Ahmed Mohamed Islam “Madobe” delivered his candidacy speech on Sunday to the 75-member regional parliament alongside three other candidates: Faysal Mohamed Mataan, Abubakar Abdi Hassan, and Dr. Abdi Hassan Haji.

The event was attended by several members of Somalia’s federal parliament from both houses.

In his address, Ahmed Madobe outlined his priorities, focusing on security, the liberation of territories still under Al-Shabaab control, and expanding Jubaland State’s security forces.

He accused the Federal Government of Somalia of failing to provide adequate military support for the ongoing fight against the militant group.

“This region’s forested areas have long served as strongholds for guerrilla fighters like Al-Shabaab, but we are committed to liberating these areas and enhancing stability,” he declared.

Madobe also emphasized the importance of delivering essential public services, including justice, education, and healthcare, to foster peace in the region.

Madobe, who has led Jubaland since its establishment in 2013, is widely expected to secure re-election for a third term.

These developments come amid mounting tensions between Jubaland State and the Federal Government of Somalia.

International partners have urged Jubaland to halt its electoral process in Kismayo and return to the National Consultative Council (NCC) in Mogadishu for inclusive discussions. However, Jubaland has ignored these calls, further straining relations with the federal government.