Garowe, (WDN)- At a ceremony in Garowe marking the opening of a newly completed bridge—expected to significantly ease transportation and improve connectivity—President Said Abdullahi Deni, surrounded by senior officials and dignitaries, used the occasion not only to celebrate the infrastructure milestone but also to deliver a sharp rebuke.

“We will never accept projects tainted by corruption, negotiated between Mogadishu and Nairobi, and ultimately bringing shame upon us,” Deni declared. “My position on this is crystal clear.”

In a direct message to the Federal Government, Deni warned against attempts to politicize international aid meant for Somalia, emphasizing that Puntland will continue to reject any initiative that compromises transparency or the long-term interests of its people.

“From time to time, I hear people claiming that Puntland is rejecting projects. Yes, we are rejecting anything that will harm us or tarnish our name,” he said. “But we fully support any project that follows the right procedures, contributes to our future, and secures a better legacy for our children.”

President Deni also highlighted that the newly inaugurated bridge was fully implemented under Puntland’s own authority, without any interference or control from the Federal Government. He emphasized that Puntland’s ability to independently manage such projects demonstrates the region’s growing capacity for self-reliant development

Although the construction of the bridge was completed months ago, it remained idle for nearly six months awaiting a formal inauguration by the president—a delay that sparked public anger. Many citizens criticized President Deni for what they described as authoritarian behavior, arguing that the bridge was urgently needed and should have been opened for public use without the political theatrics.

In a message directed at other Federal Member States, Deni called on them to prioritize the welfare of their people and follow Puntland’s example.

“We hope that other member states take this as a lesson and act with compassion for their people. Small amounts of money funneled abroad to build luxury homes overseas bring no real benefit to our citizens,” Deni concluded.

The speech comes amid growing tensions between Puntland and Somalia’s Federal Government over resource allocation, aid distribution, and political interference—tensions that continue to challenge Somalia’s fragile federal system.

WardheerNews