Ahmed Madobe, opposition politicians welcome Somali president’s call for dialogue

Jubbaland State President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) has welcomed Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s initiative for national reconciliation.

Speaking after performing Eid prayers in Kismayo, Madobe said Somalia is at a critical juncture that demands unity and sincere dialogue to resolve political disputes.

“We all understand the challenges facing Somalia’s governance. There is a need to unite against our common enemy and work together to combat Al-Shabaab,” Madobe said.

“Our statehood remains fragile and under constant threat. Political disagreements often lead to instability, which only benefits our enemies. We must acknowledge this reality.”

The Jubbaland leader urged Somali politicians to set aside internal divisions, stressing that the country faces a deeply entrenched threat that must be confronted collectively.

“I welcome the call for dialogue, but as Somalis, we must take responsibility. Even if the entire international community intervenes, they cannot solve our problems for us,” he added.

Madobe severed ties with the federal government after a political clash over his re-election last year in an indirect electoral process that the federal government opposed and sought to block. Puntland similarly withdrew its recognition of the federal government early last year over constitutional amendments and has since refrained from federal-level discussions.

Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur have also expressed support for President Mohamud’s call for a national dialogue on combating Al-Shabaab and advancing democratic governance.

In a joint statement issued Sunday, the opposition figures stressed the need for clarity regarding the agenda, timing, and participants of the proposed dialogue to ensure its effectiveness and bolster national unity in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

Former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble endorsed the initiative, describing it as a constructive step. In a statement, Roble urged leaders and political figures to embrace the opportunity with integrity, prioritising national interests over personal ambitions to advance Somalia’s state-building efforts at this critical time.