Abdi Ali Raghe, a seasoned political figure with over 30 years of experience, is emerging as a formidable candidate for the presidency of Jubaland.

President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe has served as the de facto President of Jubaland since its establishment following the seizure of Kismayo port by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), who invaded Somalia in 2011.

Jubaland, an autonomous region in southern Somalia, has been navigating complex political dynamics while striving to ensure a smooth electoral process. 

The scheduled elections, originally slated for August last year, have been postponed for year.

The region holds significant importance for Kenya, particularly for the larger Ogaden community, with frequent political engagements occurring in Kenya’s Northeastern region and Nairobi.

Mr. Raghe, an Ogaden and dual citizen of Kenya and Somalia, holds a master’s degree and has been actively involved in political, social, and security affairs in the region, notably in Jubaland.

Known for his pragmatism and forward-thinking approach, Mr. Raghe has garnered acceptance from various communities in Jubaland, transcending clan boundaries, including the Marehan and Harti clans.

Formerly a senior Political Advisor to the Somali government, Mr. Raghe played a pivotal role in the formation of the Jubaland regional state, earning recognition as a co-founder of the Jubaland Administration.

Political analyst Dr. Amina Hussein asserts, “Abdi Ali Raghe’s extensive experience in political advisory roles and his proven track record in fostering inclusive governance make him a strong candidate for Jubaland’s presidency. 

Raghe has shown his approach capacity and positive vision for the region which resonate well with the current political climate.”

With 30 years of experience as a senior policy advisor and program manager, Mr. Raghe has demonstrated leadership abilities in both government and non-profit sectors in Kenya and Somalia.

Moreover, Mr. Raghe’s dedication to humanitarian efforts in Jubaland for three decades has earned him respect as a compassionate leader committed to uplifting vulnerable communities.

Halima Ahmed, a resident of Jubaland, attests to Mr. Rage’s visionary leadership qualities. 

“He is acceptable to diverse communities in Jubaland, irrespective of clan affiliations. This reflects his ability to unite people towards a common goal of progress and development,” she said.

Mr. Raghe’s vision for Somalia and Jubaland’s state-building journey has resonated with citizens and international stakeholders alike, positioning him as a credible advocate for Jubaland’s interests.

International relations scholar Prof. Sarah Abdi remarks, “Abdi Ali Raghe’s ability to maintain strong relationships with both the Federal Government of Somalia and international stakeholders underscores his diplomatic finesse. His capacity to advocate for Jubaland’s interests on the global stage positions him as a credible leader capable of navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.”

Security expert Ahmed Jama highlights Mr. Raghe’s deep understanding of security dynamics in Jubaland and his strategic insights, indicating he is well-equipped to address the region’s security challenges. 

“His decades-long commitment to humanitarian efforts showcases his dedication to the well-being of the people of Jubaland,” he added.

President Madobe, despite facing mounting criticism from his opponents, has consistently expressed confidence in retaining his position.

The upcoming Jubaland election serves as a vital test to assess the impact of the Kenya Defence Forces’ (KDF) presence in the region. 

KDF played a crucial role in the formation of Jubaland after jointly capturing the capital city of Kismayo in 2012, alongside Madobe’s forces.