Somalia: Jubaland Rebrands as Government in Bold Challenge to Mogadishu-based FGS

KISMAYO, Somalia - Jubaland state has declared itself a government, following long-standing tensions with the Mogadishu government under Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

The announcement was made after the newly adopted constitution, according to the Speaker of the Jubaland State Government Parliament, Hon. Abdi Mohamed Abdiraham.

In a press briefing in Kismayo, Abdirahman stated that the state had removed the term "regional state" and replaced it with "Jubaland government" to signify its autonomous status and expanded governing authority.

The move marks a significant political shift and reflects years of strained relations between Jubaland and the Somali Federal Government. This comes at a time when both Jubaland troops and the Somali National Army (SNA) are pushing Al-Shabaab out of areas in the Lower Juba region.

Jubaland, a resource-rich state in southern Somalia, has endured persistent military and political intervention from the Federal Government since its establishment 12 years ago.

Despite being home to some of Al-Shabaab’s most entrenched strongholds, the state has continued to allocate much of its energy and resources to fighting the militant group, which is notorious for suicide bombings and explosive attacks in Somalia.

Sunday's declaration comes as Kismayo prepares to host a major national opposition conference scheduled to begin in three days. Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and a host of opposition leaders have confirmed attendance.

GAROWE ONLINE