A Somali court has ordered the arrest of Jubaland leader Ahmed Mohammed Islam, also known as Madobe.
The Somali Prosecutor General, through the Public Prosecutor’s Office, submitted a petition to the Banadir Regional Court requesting an arrest warrant for Madobe over these allegations.
The court, located in the southeastern part of the country, approved the prosecution’s request on Wednesday.
According to the prosecution, Madobe, in his 70s, allegedly “shared information with a foreign country with the aim of waging war against the Somali nation” and also “committed crimes against the country’s system and constitution.”
A Controversial Third Term
The court’s statement did not specify when or where the alleged crimes were committed.
The arrest order comes after Madobe controversially secured a third term as Jubaland president.
The Somali Federal Government opposed Madobe’s candidacy, citing constitutional violations. In the regional parliament, Madobe secured 55 votes, while his closest rival, Faisal Mohamed Mataan, received 16.
The Somali Federal Government stated that Madobe’s bid for a third term violates the constitution, which limits regional leaders to two five-year terms.
Push for Direct Elections
The federal government is advocating for direct elections (universal suffrage) in the country.
However, some regional leaders, including Madobe, have opposed the plan.
