Mogadishu (WDN) – The Somali Futures Forum has issued a strongly worded statement expressing deep concern over the escalating political confrontation between the Federal Government of Somalia and Puntland, warning that the growing rift could undermine national stability, weaken state-building efforts, and jeopardize hard-won security gains.

In its press statement, the Forum criticized what it described as the Federal Government’s approach toward Puntland, cautioning that the deepening political standoff risks further polarizing Somalia at a time when national unity is critical.

The Forum warned that the deteriorating relationship between Mogadishu and Puntland could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the country’s fragile political landscape but also for the broader federal system, which depends on cooperation and trust between the central government and the Federal Member States.

The Forum also raised alarm over the potential security implications of the dispute, arguing that continued political and security tensions could undermine the significant progress Puntland has made in its ongoing military campaign against the Islamic State (ISIS) in northern Somalia. It cautioned that any escalation of the confrontation could divert attention and resources away from counterterrorism operations, creating opportunities for extremist groups to regroup and exploit political divisions.

Calling for restraint, the Somali Futures Forum urged both sides to prioritize dialogue, compromise, and political consensus over actions that could further inflame the crisis. It stressed that sustainable peace and national security can only be achieved through constructive engagement between the Federal Government and Somalia’s Federal Member States.

The Forum further emphasized that preserving cooperation between Somalia’s different levels of government is essential not only for maintaining security but also for safeguarding the country’s ongoing state-building process and strengthening national institutions.

Concluding its statement, the Forum appealed to all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint and pursue a peaceful resolution to the dispute, warning that prolonged political confrontation could weaken Somalia’s fight against terrorism and derail broader efforts to build a stable and unified state. As of publication, the Federal Government of Somalia had not issued an official response to the Somali Futures Forum’s statement.

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