Sunday February 2, 2025
FILE - Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, Somali lawmaker and leader of the Wadajir Party
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali lawmaker and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame has condemned the Somali government for failing to acknowledge Puntland's contributions to the ongoing military campaign against ISIS militants in the country's northeastern Bari region.
In his sharp rebuke, Warsame accused the federal government of downplaying local efforts despite the strategic importance of Puntland's role in containing the threat posed by the extremist group. His remarks follow a recent press statement from the Somali government regarding airstrikes in the Golis Mountains, which Warsame said made no mention of Puntland's significant role in providing on-ground intelligence and operational support.
Warsame compared the Somali government's statement with one issued by the U.S., noting five key similarities: both were published in English, praised U.S. involvement, and referenced Trump. However, neither statement acknowledged the role of local actors or reflected a spirit of collaboration.
While Warsame directed much of his criticism at the federal government, he also faulted Puntland leaders for failing to engage constructively. "Puntland officials have largely directed their gratitude toward the U.S. military and AFRICOM, bypassing any recognition of the federal government," he said.
The Wadajir party leader's remarks illustrate a persistent divide between Puntland and the central government, a relationship marred by disagreements over security coordination and political representation. Puntland has long sought greater recognition for its role in combating extremist threats. Warsame warned that the tensions could negatively affect Somalia's battle against militant groups. "Extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS emerged from the collapse of the state. They are not the disease but the fever, a symptom of Somalia's long-standing political instability," he said.