President Mohamud Meets Puntland Traditional Leaders, Emphasizes National Unity and State-Building

The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, held a meeting with a delegation of traditional elders, Isims, and clan leaders from Puntland, led by King Burhan Boqor Muse. The leaders were in attendance for the inauguration ceremony of the leadership of the North Eastern State of Somalia.

During the meeting, President Hassan Sheikh underscored the vital role of traditional leadership in safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and national unity, as well as in strengthening peace, state-building, and development efforts. He commended the elders for their long-standing and historic role in maintaining social cohesion and resolving conflicts within Somali communities.

The president emphasized that traditional leaders remain a cornerstone of Somali society, calling on them to continue playing an active and constructive role in promoting stability, reconciliation, and inclusive governance across the country.

For their part, King Burhan and the traditional leaders praised President Hassan Sheikh’s efforts in facilitating the formation of the North Eastern State administration, protecting Somalia’s independence and territorial integrity, and accelerating the consolidation of state institutions. They expressed strong nationalistic sentiments and reaffirmed their commitment to actively contributing to peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives.

The traditional leaders also voiced their readiness to support federal institutions and regional administrations in fostering dialogue, unity, and sustainable peace, particularly in areas facing political and security challenges.

The meeting was attended by members of the Federal Government cabinet, the Commander of the Somali Police Force, senior military officials, and politicians from Puntland regions. The gathering highlighted the continued importance of cooperation between federal leadership, regional stakeholders, and traditional authorities in advancing Somalia’s peace, unity, and governance agenda.