KISMAYU (SD) – The Parliament of Jubaland has elected Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) as the new president of Jubaland, following a widely anticipated election.

The election took place in Kismayo, where Madoobe won in the first round with 55 votes, defeating three other candidates.

The closest competitor, Faisal Mohamed Matan, received 16 votes, while Abukar Abdi Hassan got 4 votes.

The Speaker of the Jubaland Parliament announced Madobe’s victory, confirming he will serve as president for the next five years. Celebrations quickly began in Kismayo and other parts of Jubaland, with gunfire heard as part of the festivities.

The Federal Government of Somalia had previously stated that it would not recognize Madobe’s re-election. In response, Madobe said that he does not require recognition from the Federal Government but seeks the recognition of the people of Jubaland.