Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe arrived in Garowe on Sunday, marking his first visit in three years. He was received by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni.
Madobe, a key architect of the controversial amendments to Somalia’s Provisional Constitution, played a central role in advancing reforms that Puntland has long rejected. In December 2022, Puntland formally withdrew from Somalia’s federal state-building process, citing the amendments as unconstitutional and positioning itself as a defender of constitutional integrity.
Madobe’s visit has raised questions about Puntland’s political position. Analysts are asking why Deni is now engaging with one of the main proponents of reforms his administration has strongly opposed.
The visit follows recent reconciliation talks between the two leaders in Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, following strained relations after the May 15, 2022, presidential election. During that vote, Madobe backed incumbent President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, a move widely seen as a betrayal by Deni, his former political ally.
Madobe’s arrival also comes amid continued uncertainty over his re-election, which was not recognized by the Federal Government and four of Somalia’s member states. Only Puntland and the Opposition Forum acknowledged the legitimacy of his re-election. His visit comes just days after the postponement of the National Consultative Council meeting, originally scheduled for June 22, reportedly delayed, in part, due to Puntland’s demand for Madobe’s inclusion.
With political alliances shifting ahead of Somalia’s 2026 presidential elections and amid speculation that Deni himself may be a candidate, questions over the Puntland leader’s consistency and credibility are intensifying.
Finally, Said Deni and Ahmed Madobe are expected to launch a joint political corporation against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, sources say.
