Garowe – Somalia’s Jubbaland State President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, popularly known as Ahmed Madobe, arrived in Garowe, the capital of Puntland State, on Sunday for an official visit.

He was warmly welcomed at the airport by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, senior Puntland government officials, and local residents.

The visit highlights growing cooperation between the two regional states, which have both voiced concerns over their strained relationship with Somalia’s Federal Government.

Jubaland and Puntland have been critical of the Federal Government’s approach to the national electoral process, particularly the model being proposed for upcoming elections.

IN PICTURES: #Somalia's Jubbaland State President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, also known as Ahmed Madobe, arrived in Garowe on Sunday, where he was warmly received by Puntland State President Said Abdullahi Deni, regional officials, and members of the public.

The visit comes amid… pic.twitter.com/HQ98cZXKpA

— Frontier Online (@FrontierOnlineK) June 22, 2025

The Federal Government has refused to recognize Ahmed Madobe’s presidency following his re-election through an indirect vote not endorsed by Mogadishu.

Somalia is currently facing a political deadlock over the electoral model, as the Federal Government pushes for the introduction of direct elections.

This move has been opposed by several opposition figures and regional states, who favor the previous indirect system in which Members of Parliament elect the president, and MPs themselves are selected by clan-based delegates.

During the visit, the two leaders are expected to hold high-level talks on regional security, elections, and inter-state collaboration.

The outcome of their discussions could have a significant impact on Somalia’s ongoing political dialogue and efforts to reach a consensus on the electoral framework.

President Madobe’s trip underscores the importance of regional alliances as Somalia continues to navigate complex political challenges.