Tuesday December 10, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — The SSC-Khaatumo administration has accused Puntland of undermining its autonomy and progress, escalating tensions between the two Somali regional administrations. The accusations come as SSC-Khaatumo claims its neighbour is engaging in actions that jeopardize cooperation and stability in northern Somalia.
In a sharply worded statement, SSC-Khaatumo leaders condemned what they described as Puntland’s “unlawful interference” in the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions—territories governed by SSC-Khaatumo. The administration accused Puntland of obstructing development projects, politicizing humanitarian aid, and blocking critical vaccination campaigns, actions they claim directly harm the local population.
“This deliberate interference undermines the progress we have worked so hard to achieve,” the statement said, adding that such actions violate the spirit of agreements forged in February 2023, when SSC-Khaatumo was formally recognized by Somalia’s Federal Government.
SSC-Khaatumo’s accusations mark a deterioration in relations between the two administrations. The February 2023 agreement, seen as a milestone in resolving contested governance in northern Somalia, granted SSC-Khaatumo full authority over the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn. This decision was initially welcomed by Puntland leaders and local communities, who viewed it as a step toward lasting peace.
Yet, SSC-Khaatumo claims Puntland has since reneged on its commitments. “These actions threaten not only the unity of SSC-Khaatumo but also the stability of the region as a whole,” the statement read.
Among the administration’s grievances is the alleged intimidation of Alight, an international organization implementing development projects in SSC-Khaatumo territories. SSC-Khaatumo accused Puntland of obstructing these efforts, depriving local communities of vital services.
SSC-Khaatumo leaders urged Puntland to honour the February agreement and respect the sovereignty of their administration. They warned that continued interference could worsen tensions and jeopardize fragile peace efforts.
“This is more important than politics; it’s about the well-being of our people,” the statement emphasized. SSC-Khaatumo called on Puntland to cease any actions that undermine progress and focus instead on fostering cooperation and good neighbourliness.
The tensions between SSC-Khaatumo and Puntland are not new but have intensified as SSC-Khaatumo consolidates its administration and seeks to implement development projects.
Observers warn that the dispute risks disrupting humanitarian aid and development efforts in one of Somalia’s most vulnerable regions.