Human rights activists in Garissa are demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Senator Elyas Badal Gabose and 33 others who have reportedly been under house arrest in Jubaland, Somalia for the past seven months. Senator Gabose, a presidential contender in the disputed November 2024 Jubaland elections, is accused of being detained without due process, which activists say violates democratic principles and could threaten regional stability.
The activists have appealed to international bodies like IGAD, the AU, and the UN, as well as the Kenyan government, to intervene diplomatically. Their concerns follow the controversial re-election of President Ahmed Madobe, after constitutional amendments removed term limits. The election results have been rejected by Somalia’s Federal Government, intensifying tensions over governance and autonomy.
