Jubaland Minister Urges Stronger Federal Control Ahead of Key Opposition Summit

 

Somalia’s fragile political landscape once again came into focus on Tuesday as Jubaland’s Minister of Information, Abdifitah Mukhtar, called for stronger federal control ahead of a high-profile opposition summit in Kismaayo. The remarks, reported by Shabelle Media Network, come at a time of heightened political tension between the Federal Government of Somalia and several federal member states.

Speaking shortly before the opening of the summit, Minister Mukhtar emphasized the need for clear and decisive leadership at the federal level. He argued that Somalia’s prolonged political challenges stem partly from weak coordination and inconsistent authority between Mogadishu and regional administrations. According to him, strengthening federal oversight is essential to maintaining national cohesion, ensuring stability, and addressing governance gaps that continue to undermine state-building efforts.

The opposition summit, hosted by the Jubaland administration, is expected to bring together influential political figures from across the country. Among those attending is former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, alongside senior politicians, opposition leaders, and representatives from various political factions. Observers say the gathering could shape political alignments ahead of upcoming national processes, including discussions around elections, constitutional reforms, and power-sharing.

This meeting comes at a sensitive moment in Somalia’s political calendar. Relations between the federal government and some regional states have remained strained, with disagreements over authority, electoral frameworks, and security responsibilities. While Jubaland officials say the summit aims to foster dialogue and consensus among opposition groups, analysts caution that it could further complicate relations with Mogadishu if positions taken during the discussions are seen as confrontational.

Minister Mukhtar’s call for stronger federal control has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters argue that a more assertive central government is necessary to prevent political fragmentation and ensure uniform governance across the country. They believe that without clear federal leadership, Somalia risks deepening divisions that could weaken national institutions and slow progress toward long-term stability.

On the other hand, critics warn that increased federal control must be balanced with respect for the autonomy of federal member states. Somalia’s federal system was designed to accommodate regional diversity and local governance, and any attempt to centralize power without consensus could fuel further political disputes.

International partners and local civil society groups are closely watching the developments in Kismaayo. Many hope the summit will contribute to constructive dialogue rather than deepen political polarization. Somalia continues to face significant challenges, including security threats, humanitarian needs, and economic recovery, all of which require cooperation between federal and regional authorities.

As the opposition summit unfolds, its outcomes may have lasting implications for Somalia’s political trajectory. Whether it leads to renewed dialogue or heightened tensions will depend largely on the willingness of all parties to prioritize national interests over political rivalry. For now, Minister Mukhtar’s remarks underscore the ongoing debate over governance, authority, and the future of federalism in Somalia.