The federal government, through Villa Somalia, has scheduled a meeting on May 1–2, 2025, inviting leaders of regional states to discuss strategies for combating Al-Shabaab militants. The agenda emphasizes “societal consultations” over political complexities, aligning with demands from both opposition groups and international partners.
Notably, Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe was not invited to this meeting. Madobe has been at odds with the federal government, having previously withdrawn from the National Consultative Council (NCC) talks in October 2024. His withdrawal was due to disagreements over the implementation of a one-person, one-vote electoral system and concerns about the exclusion of Puntland and SSC-Khaatumo from discussions, which he argued would render national elections incomplete and potentially illegitimate.
Madobe’s absence from the upcoming meeting could hinder full participation from regional states and jeopardize the discussions aimed at enhancing the fight against Al-Shabaab. His strained relationship with the federal government, marked by disputes over electoral reforms and accusations of federal overreach, underscores the challenges in achieving unified national strategies.
The exclusion of key regional leaders like Madobe may impact the effectiveness of the proposed societal consultations and the broader efforts to combat Al-Shabaab, as unity among federal and regional entities is crucial for national security and stability.
