Somalia: Jubaland police officer promoted for rejecting $90,000 cash to oust Madobe

KISMAYO, Somalia - Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe has promoted a police commander who rejected President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s offer to support changes in the regional administration, terming him 'honest and straightforward'.

Abdihakin Hassan Cartan alias Jabuti rejected $90,000 from the federal government which was an offer to facilitate the planned ouster of Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, who had secured his third term after overwhelming victory in local elections.

Jabuti, who is the police commander in Kismayo, was promoted to the rank of a major and was acknowledged for his steadfast leadership and transparency in the police service, having rejected advances from the federal government to overthrow Madobe.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has been at loggerheads with Jubaland regional leader Ahmed Madobe, leading to the nasty battle in Raskamboni, which the federal troops graciously lost according to reports from the state.

An agitated Hassan Sheikh Mohamud opposed the re-election of Madobe, consequently, sending elite troops to Raskamboni to battle with the regional forces. Most federal troops had to secure safety in the Kenya Defence Forces camp after losing the battle.

While Hassan Sheikh Mohamud wants direct elections in all states, Madobe had opposed the move, arguing that it could lead to unprecedented term extensions for regional leaders against the provisions of the transition federal constitution.

Jubaland has since ratified Madobe’s victory, accusing Hassan Sheikh of political interference. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is still under pressure from Jubaland and Puntland to embrace constitutional processes, adding that direct polls have not been supported through consensus.

GAROWE ONLINE