Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe), both recently in Abu Dhabi, have reached a political understanding aimed at mending ties strained since Somalia’s May 15, 2022, elections.
The fallout between the two leaders began during the presidential race, in which Deni emerged as a major contender. His bid was widely seen as sidelining Madobe, a longtime ally, and deepened divisions within the federal member states.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, Deni and Madobe have now agreed to strengthen cooperation between their administrations and to adopt a joint political stance amid the Federal Government’s ongoing unilateral constitutional amendments, disputed elections and governance challenges.
The rapprochement comes amid unconfirmed reports that Deni is preparing another bid for Somalia’s presidency in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Sources add that the two leaders have since arrived in Nairobi, where they are expected to consult with Somali political allies and coordinate a broader opposition strategy centered in Mogadishu and Garowe. They are also expected to join discussions with international partners.
