Tensions Rise Between Federal Government and Puntland Amid Fresh Security Dispute

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GAROWE: Relations between Somalia’s Federal Government and the semi-autonomous Puntland State appear to be deteriorating further following a fresh exchange over security and military deployments, underscoring longstanding political and constitutional disputes between the two sides.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Puntland administration accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of orchestrating military activities that it said could fuel new conflict and threaten the stability of the region. Puntland maintained that the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) are the only legally mandated security forces authorised to operate within its territory and warned that it would not accept the deployment of federal troops inside the state.
The statement also urged neighbouring Galmudug to avoid involvement in any military or militia activities that could affect Puntland residents, while calling on the international community to support efforts aimed at preserving regional peace and stability. Puntland further appealed to its residents to remain united and safeguard the state’s security and governance.
The latest statement adds to growing tensions between Mogadishu and Garowe, whose relationship has remained strained over constitutional reforms, power-sharing, elections and security arrangements.
Puntland suspended its recognition of federal institutions in March 2024 after rejecting constitutional amendments approved by Somalia’s Federal Parliament, arguing that the changes were adopted without broad national consensus. Although Puntland said it would continue to recognise Somalia as a unified state, it declared that it would govern itself independently until a mutually agreed federal constitutional framework is reached.
Differences have also emerged over Somalia’s electoral process. Puntland has repeatedly opposed the Federal Government’s push for a one-person, one-vote election model, insisting that major electoral and constitutional decisions should be reached through consensus among federal member states and other political stakeholders.
Security cooperation has become another source of friction. While Puntland has continued its own military operations against Islamic State militants and Al-Shabaab in the Bari region, disagreements have periodically surfaced over the presence and role of federal security forces, command structures and coordination mechanisms.
The latest exchange comes at a time when Somalia is seeking to strengthen national security institutions and prepare for expanded electoral processes, making cooperation between the Federal Government and federal member states increasingly important. However, with both sides maintaining firm positions on constitutional authority and security jurisdiction, prospects for easing tensions remain uncertain.