Somalia’s Deepening Divide: Puntland and Jubaland Reject Federal Authority, Urge International Action

Garoowe, Somalia — A profound political fissure has opened in Somalia, with the regional states of Puntland and Jubbaland jointly declaring their decisive loss of confidence in the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). In a forceful communiqué issued after a summit in Garoowe from June 23-26, 2025, the two administrations accused the FGS of systematically violating the Provisional Constitution, unlawfully asserting power, and politically weaponizing international aid, national airspace management, and regional election processes.

The joint statement directly challenged the FGS’s adherence to the foundational agreements that underpin Somalia’s federal system. “The FGS has violated the Provisional Constitution, using national powers for political interests and as a tool of oppression against member states,” the communiqué asserted.

Rejecting Federal Representation and Seeking International Recourse

Puntland and Jubbaland explicitly stated their refusal to recognize the FGS as a complete representative of all Somali citizens’ interests. In a significant escalation, they announced their intent to formally complain to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). They seek an independent assessment of the FGS’s management of the country’s airspace, signalling a direct challenge to the central government’s authority on an international stage.

This move underscores a deepening chasm between the FGS and key federal member states. Observers warn that such a profound disagreement could jeopardize the fragile federal architecture and further strain the already contentious relationship between the central and regional administrations.

Democracy and Elections: Puntland’s “One Person, One Vote” Commitment

The communiqué also highlighted Puntland’s readiness to conduct a one-person, one-vote election, framing it as a genuine step towards implementing a democratic process in the country. This declaration is seen as a subtle encouragement to other regional administrations and positions Puntland as a potential leader in reforming the nation’s electoral system.

However, both regional states levelled accusations against the FGS, claiming direct interference in their respective electoral processes. They argue this interference is intended to undermine democratic development at the regional level.

Direct Appeal to the Global Community

Puntland and Jubbaland issued an unequivocal appeal to the international community, particularly nations supporting Somalia, urging them not to offer blind support to the central government. Instead, they called for an impartial judgment on issues related to good governance, transparency, and constitutional adherence.

“The FGS frequently uses international aid to pressure autonomous administrations, and this damages the country’s political sovereignty,” the statement outlined. They further contended that politicized administrations should not be used as conduits for aid, asserting that such practices are unacceptable.

Conclusion: A Crisis of Governance

The Garoowe communiqué marks a critical turning point, indicating that the conflict between the central government and the two federal member states has entered its most perilous phase. Sensitive issues, including constitutional fidelity, electoral processes, resource management, and international relations, are now at the forefront.

Political experts warn that if this escalating dispute remains unresolved through genuine national dialogue, it could lead to severe political fragmentation, security instability, and the ultimate collapse of the federal system agreed upon in 2012. The call for a comprehensive national conference rings with urgency, as the very survival of Somali statehood appears to hang in the balance.