Barely a fortnight after his controversial inauguration, Kenya Defense Forces ally Sheikh Ahmed Madobe has appointed two of his life and to goverment.
Madobe, the former leader of Ras Kamboni Brigade, was elected the President of Jubaland state, even though the federal government rejected his victory.
On Tuesday, Madobe appointed Mohamud Aden and Haji Mohamed as his first and second deputy leaders respectively. The two served in those roles in previous goverment.
"Jubbaland leader Ahmed Madobe reappoints his current deputy leaders - Mohamud Sayid Aden, and Abdulkadir Haji Mohamed “Luga-Dhere” - as the first and second deputy leaders, respectively," reports indicated.
The two are now expected to help him streamline government operations following a crisis with Mogadishu. Kenya has been accused of imposing Madobe on people of Jubaland.
During his inauguration, Kenya's National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale said Nairobi will continue working closely with Kismayo administration to foster peace in Somalia.
“Jubbaland is the buffer for the whole of East African region and Kenya congratulates President Madobe for being in the forefront in the fight against terrorism,” he said.
Kenya shares an 800km common border with the breakaway state of Somalia and more than any other country has heavily invested in the security and stability of Somalia.
Mr Duale said as immediate neighbours Kenya and Jubbaland have a special relationship which has forced the two to work closely to address common security challenges especially those posed by Al Shabaab.
“Of course we will continue to work closely alongside the Federal government so as to forge a formidable front against the menace of terrorism and state building efforts.”