Puntland Rejects Somalia’s Federal Election Process, Calls for National Dialogue

GOOBJOOG NEWS | GAROWE: Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has said his administration will not participate in Somalia’s federal government-led electoral process, deepening a political standoff over the country’s electoral framework and the future of its federal system.

Deni made the remarks while opening Puntland’s parliament in Garowe, calling on Somalis to engage in dialogue and reach a political understanding on the country’s direction amid persistent disagreements between the federal government and regional authorities.

He said Puntland’s position on elections differed from that of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, underscoring the lack of consensus over how Somalia should organise its next vote.

The dispute comes as Somalia faces competing political positions over the electoral process, with disagreements threatening to complicate efforts to secure agreement among federal and state leaders.

Deni also urged the international community to closely monitor Somalia’s political situation and support a consultative process to address the divisions.

He called on Somalis to come together for dialogue and jointly consider the country’s future, stressing the need for an inclusive political settlement that takes account of the positions of all stakeholders.

Puntland’s stance adds to pressure on the federal government to reach an understanding with regional administrations and political actors over the electoral framework.

The disagreement between Garowe and Mogadishu reflects wider tensions over the distribution of political authority, constitutional arrangements and the process for choosing Somalia’s next leadership.

Deni recently returned to Garowe after an extended absence from the regional capital. His latest remarks signal that the electoral dispute remains unresolved, with no indication of an immediate breakthrough in negotiations.

The extent to which Puntland and other political stakeholders can agree on a common electoral framework is likely to shape preparations for Somalia’s next federal election and the prospects for political stability.