MOGADISHU, Oct 16 (Horn Life) – A senior Somali federal official has denied reports of plans to establish a new regional administration in the southern Gedo region under the name “New Jubaland,” amid rising political speculation and public concern.
State Minister for the Federal Ministry of Interior, MP Saadad Caliyow, told local media that the federal government has no knowledge of such a plan and is not involved in the creation of any new regional entity in Gedo.
“There is already an existing Jubaland administration. I recognize Ahmed Madobe as the former president of Jubaland,” Saadad said, noting that there are ongoing discussions between the federal government and the Jubaland administration focused on governance and cooperation.
He emphasized that while there have been several attempts to initiate formal talks aimed at aligning the positions of the federal government and Jubaland, those efforts have so far yielded no tangible outcomes.
His remarks come amid growing speculation about the formation of a new local administration in parts of Gedo, which has triggered political debate and public reactions in the region.
Saadad reiterated that any changes to regional governance structures must be part of broader national consultations, and that the ministry remains committed to dialogue over unilateral moves.
