GAROWE – Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni accused Somalia’s federal government on Tuesday of “systematically eroding the fragile federal framework,” renewing long‑running tensions between the northeastern regional state and the central authorities in Mogadishu, Arlaadi Media Network reports.
He vowed that Puntland would resist what he described as “efforts to weaken regional administrations without offering any viable alternative,” a charge the federal government has repeatedly denied.
Deni, speaking in Qardho, made the comments against a backdrop of deepening political strain in another federal member state, where relations with the centre have recently deteriorated sharply.
In South West State, Somalia’s national army took control of the region’s largest city, Baidoa, late last month after weeks of dispute with the regional administration, prompting the state president to resign.
The stand‑off began in mid‑March when South West officials said they were severing ties with the federal government amid disagreements over constitutional changes and federal authority.
In Baidoa, federal authorities have ordered state institutions to continue normal operations and have moved to impose tighter security, including banning the carrying of weapons at night and enforcing curfews as part of efforts to stabilise the city following the leadership upheaval.
A deputy prime minister has been appointed as interim leader of South West State to oversee a transition and support preparations for one‑person, one‑vote elections, a key element of Somalia’s broader democratic roadmap.
Southern tensions have raised international concern over constitutional governance and the future of Somalia’s federal system, which is also under pressure from ongoing security challenges posed by al‑Shabaab militants across the country.
Deni’s comments reflect broader unease among regional leaders about what they view as encroachments on their autonomy, even as the federal government argues its actions are necessary to ensure national unity and advance electoral reforms.
Meanwhile, during his visit to Qardho town, Deni also met commanders of the Puntland security forces involved in the Calmiskaad operation, praising what he called “notable security progress” and urging troops to remain ready “to defend the region’s institutions, population and territorial integrity”.
