LAS ANOD (WDN) — A major political gathering in Las Anod, the capital of the Sool region, reached a landmark conclusion on Monday night, with delegates formally approving the creation of a new federal member state within Somalia. The conference, which brought together representatives from the Khatumo and Maakhir regions, culminated in a consensus to name the new entity the Federal Member State of Northeastern Somalia (Dowlad Goboleedka Waqooyi Bari Soomaaliya). The new state has been recognized by the Federal Government of Somalia, which played an active role in its formation.

In a significant move, delegates also adopted the regional constitution, marking a foundational step in the establishment of administrative and legal structures for the new state. The document was finalized following extensive debate, amendments, and inclusive consultation among participants.

The contentious issue of parliamentary seat allocation for SSC-Khaatumo and Maakhir is also settled on July 30, 2025. An agreement has been reached to allocate 45 seats to SSC-Khaatumo and 38 seats to Maakhir, marking a significant step for the formation of the newest 6 federal member state of Somalia.

This development is seen as a milestone in efforts to stabilize and integrate the regions into Somalia’s broader federal framework. It also reflects growing recognition of the need to establish a new federal member state—North Eastern Somalia—comprising the regions of Sool and Sanaag. These areas have long been the center of conflict and competing territorial claims between Somaliland and Puntland, and the move is viewed as a step toward resolving long-standing disputes and fostering local self-governance.

While the agreement may not satisfy all factions, it is widely regarded as a positive step toward strengthening Somalia’s territorial integrity and advancing inclusive local governance. Political stakeholders are now expected to focus on the practical implementation of the seat-sharing arrangement, including the election of members of parliament from Maakhir and the selection of a president for the newly proposed North Eastern State. The process is anticipated to be completed by early Augustt.

The constitutional convention was attended by 417 delegates, representing various clans and communities from across the territories forming the proposed state. With an overwhelming majority, the delegates voted to ratify the constitution, signaling broad support for the formation of the Northeastern Somalia administration.

The conference is seen as a turning point for political organization in northern Somalia, with supporters calling it a step toward greater regional stability, representation, and alignment with Somalia’s federal system.

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