GAROWE – The Puntland administration has broken its silence over escalating political and military activities in the eastern regions of Sanaag and Haylaan, accusing the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) of orchestrating what it describes as a “deliberate campaign of destabilization.”

Speaking from Garowe, Speaker of the Puntland House of Representatives, Cabdirisaaq Axmed Siciid—whose constituency lies in the Haylaan region—issued a stern warning to Mogadishu, denouncing what he called “illegitimate interference and unlawful military deployments” by federal actors in areas under Puntland’s jurisdiction.

“It is completely unacceptable for the Federal Government to interfere in the internal affairs of the Sanaag region and fuel political instability,” said Speaker Cabdirisaaq. “Puntland remains committed to maintaining peace and security across its territories. Safeguarding these regions is a constitutional responsibility we take seriously.”

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Sanaag region, particularly following a controversial political mobilization in the town of Ceelbuh. Late last night, former Puntland parliamentary speaker and current opposition figure, MP Cabdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil, was reportedly forced to flee the area with his security convoy after being surrounded by Puntland forces.

Jibriil had been actively organizing meetings aimed at rallying support for the integration of parts of Sanaag into the newly proposed SSC-Khaatumo administration—an initiative quietly supported by federal authorities in Mogadishu, according to Puntland officials.

The political standoff has raised alarms over the Federal Government’s alleged use of loyalists and former officials to undermine Puntland’s territorial integrity by carving out parallel administrations in contested regions.

Observers warn that the ongoing power struggle between Mogadishu and Garowe could further fragment Somalia’s fragile federal structure, particularly as some communities remain divided over whether they belong under the Puntland umbrella or the new SSC-Khaatumo entity.

As tensions rise, Puntland’s leadership has vowed to defend its administrative borders and prevent what it calls “a reckless federal power grab aimed at dismantling the unity and stability of the region.”

WardheerNews