Mogadishu(SONNA)-Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has congratulated Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur, widely known as “Madobe,” following his election on Wednesday as the new leader of Southwest State of Somalia.
Madobe was elected by the Southwest State Parliament in a vote held in the interim capital, Baidoa, securing an overwhelming 88 votes out of the 90 lawmakers who participated in the election. His only challenger, Abdulaziz Mohamed Osman, received one vote, while one ballot was declared invalid.
In his congratulatory message, President Hassan wished the newly elected leader success in steering the state into a new phase of governance and development. He urged the new administration to focus on strengthening national unity, fostering social cohesion across the state, and working tirelessly to promote peace, development, and strong state institutions.
Madobe is regarded as one of Somalia’s most seasoned politicians, with a long record of public service in senior leadership positions. Most recently, he served as Speaker of the Federal Parliament’s House of the People.
President Hassan also praised the political maturity and civic awareness demonstrated by the state parliament, candidates, and citizens throughout the electoral process. He described the election as an important democratic milestone that reflects Somalia’s commitment to the peaceful transfer of power through free and fair elections and reinforces confidence in the country’s stability and future progress.
The election marks a significant moment for Southwest State as the new leadership prepares to address governance, security, and development priorities across the region.