By Abdimalik Hajir - Reporter
13 April 2026 - Kenyan leaders have urged Somalia’s regional heads to respect the authority of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, saying unity under the federal leadership is crucial for the country’s stability, security, and long-term development.
Speaking during the thanksgiving ceremony of Jibril Abdirashid for his appointment as interim President of the South West state of Somalia, the leaders said a country can only prosper when its head of state is listened to and his words are final.
Mandera Senator Ali Roba said Kenyan Somalis have been perturbed by regional heads of Somalia replying and competing with federal heads of state.
“The Kenya constitutions and the way we see things in Somalia is completely different, we usually wonder how can regional head confront and question the President,” said senator Roba
Roba who is also the party leader of United Democratic Movement (UDM) and former Mandera Governor slammed the Somalis in Diaspora saying they are also supporting such initiatives which he noted is not good for the citizens of Somalia.
Wajir Senator Mohamed Abass Sheikh appealed to regional heads of Somalia to always consult the President of the federal government and unite for a common goal noting that the essence of forming a federal government was for easy coordination.
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“We are seeing a lot of tension and confusion that have resulted in the lack of implementation of the constitution, we are asking the regional states to support the federal government,” he said.
“We want everyone from Puntland, Jubaland, South West, and Somaliland Galmuthug to be submissive to the federal government for development’s sake,” he added.
The thanksgiving ceremony celebrating the appointment of Jibril Abdirashid as Interim President of Southwest Somalia, an appointment made by H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was attended by wide range of leaders including Governors Ahmed Abdullahi (Wajir), Adan Khalif (Mandera), the the PS for Special Programmes Ismail Madey.
The gathering brought together leaders and citizens in a powerful show of solidarity, underscoring the shared purpose across communities.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate President Jibril Abdirashid and wish him wisdom and success as he assumes this important role,” said Hussein Weytan the Member of Parliament for Mandera East.
The Mp said he is hopeful that his leadership will contribute to lasting peace, development, and prosperity in Southwest Somalia, while deepening the strong ties that unite us as a people.