Garowe (WDN)- The Puntland Government has formally rejected a federal plan to conduct elections in parts of northeastern Somalia, escalating tensions over territorial authority and electoral legitimacy.

In a strongly worded statement, Puntland opposed any attempt by the Federal Government of Somalia to organize elections in areas it considers constitutionally under its administration. The dispute centers on territories under the Northeastern regional administration, which Puntland says it does not recognize.

Puntland also dismissed the authority of the National Electoral Commission, describing it as a body whose legality and existence remain contested. The regional government further criticized the leadership approach of President Hassan Sheikh, accusing the federal administration of acting without consensus.

According to the statement, the election timetable issued by the commission includes Galgodogob district in Mudug region — where Puntland already conducted local council elections on May 25, 2023 — as well as districts in the Sool and Ayn regions, which Puntland maintains are constitutionally part of its territory.

The development underscores deepening divisions between Puntland and Mogadishu over electoral management, territorial jurisdiction, and the broader direction of Somalia’s political transition.

WardheerNews