Puntland Leader Accuses Federal Government of Undermining Somalia’s Federal Pact
In a heated address, Puntland’s president charged the Somali federal government with systematically eroding the nation’s federal model, warning that recent political maneuvers in Mogadishu threaten to concentrate authority and sideline regional states. The remarks signal deepening rifts ahead of critical national talks.
The president of Somalia’s northeastern Puntland region has launched a sharp rebuke against the federal authorities in Mogadishu, accusing them of deliberately weakening the country’s federal system.
Speaking at an official function in Garowe, the regional leader alleged that recent policy decisions and legislative moves by the central government are designed to override the constitutional powers of member states.
Without directly naming specific officials, the Puntland president argued that the federal government has repeatedly bypassed consultation mechanisms, imposed unilateral appointments, and sought to centralize security and resource management; steps he described as a “direct assault” on the federal charter. He warned that such actions risk unraveling the fragile political compact that ended decades of centralized authoritarian rule.
The accusations come amid a prolonged standoff between Puntland and Mogadishu over electoral reforms, constitutional amendments, and control of national security forces. Puntland has previously withdrawn recognition of federal institutions over disputed changes to the interim constitution.
Political analysts note that the latest outburst could complicate ongoing reconciliation efforts led by the National Consultative Council. The federal government has yet to issue an official response, but sources close to the presidency suggest that Mogadishu views Puntland’s stance as obstructionist.
As tensions escalate, observers fear that the deepening rift may stall progress on key national priorities, including anti-al-Shabaab operations and debt relief milestones.
