Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe faces opposition demands for free political space amid US congressional support

Opposition politicians in Somalia's semi‑autonomous Jubaland region, led by Ahmed Safi of the Somali Sime Party, have called on President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Ahmed Madobe) to open a free political space ahead of the disputed 2024 Jubaland elections. Safi warned that the current environment stifles debate and undermines institutional independence, urging the United Nations, African Union and bilateral partners to pressure Madobe’s administration to allow genuine competition and protect freedom of expression.

On 29 July 2026, a senior U.S. congressional delegation headed by Rep. Ronny Jackson visited Kismayo and met with President Madobe. The talks focused on counter‑terrorism cooperation, regional security and development assistance, praising the joint efforts of Jubaland’s Darawiish and Danab forces against Al Shabaab. U.S. officials highlighted Jubaland’s strategic role as a security buffer for Kenya and Ethiopia, emphasizing the importance of continued support to maintain stability in the Horn of Africa.