Garowe, (WDN)— In a sharp rebuke of the Federal Government of Somalia, Puntland officials have declared that the international community has lost confidence in Villa Somalia’s leadership, particularly over what they describe as repeated failures in counterterrorism efforts. The remarks underscore growing tensions between the regional state of Puntland and the central government in Mogadishu.
Speaking to local media from Garowe, Puntland’s Minister of Information, Maxamuud Aydid Dirir, stated that key international partners — including the United States and the United Kingdom — are distancing themselves from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration. “The international community is increasingly voicing frustration with Villa Somalia,” Dirir said. “They say, ‘We have failed with him, we’re moving on. He cannot be trusted. He’s not someone who can be relied on with sensitive intelligence.’”
According to the minister, this breakdown in trust stems largely from Mogadishu’s inability to deliver results in its fight against terrorism, particularly against Al-Shabaab, despite years of international military and financial support.
Minister Dirir emphasized that Puntland has emerged as a reliable and cooperative partner in the global fight against terrorism — specifically against ISIS elements entrenched in the rugged terrain of the Bari region. He noted that both the U.S. and U.K. governments have expressed full confidence in Puntland’s commitment and operational effectiveness.
“The United States and the United Kingdom now recognize Puntland as a true partner in combating international terrorism,” Dirir said. “Just recently, American aircraft were seen delivering rations to Puntland forces stationed on the highest mountain ranges.”
These statements come at a time when Puntland is asserting greater political and administrative autonomy, having suspended cooperation with Mogadishu on several national processes. The region’s leaders argue that Villa Somalia has become increasingly authoritarian and unaccountable, particularly in how it manages security, development aid, and constitutional affairs.
Shifting Diplomatic Dynamics
Diplomatic observers suggest the minister’s remarks reflect a wider shift in regional alliances, as foreign actors recalibrate their relationships within Somalia. While the federal government continues to receive formal recognition, its inability to maintain military gains against insurgents, coupled with ongoing political infighting, is raising doubts among donors and strategic partners.
“Puntland’s narrative is resonating with some international stakeholders,” said one regional analyst. “They see a relatively stable partner with functional institutions, while Mogadishu is struggling with internal discord and eroding credibility.”
The implications of this shift could be far-reaching. If Puntland successfully positions itself as the more effective and trustworthy counterterrorism partner, it may secure increased direct engagement with international actors — potentially bypassing federal channels altogether.
For now, the Somali public and international community are watching closely as Puntland and Villa Somalia continue their uneasy standoff, with national unity and regional cooperation hanging in the balance.
WardheerNews