MOGADISHU, Somalia — Puntland authorities have accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of eroding Somalia’s fragile federal arrangement by marginalizing regional administrations in national decision-making. The statement, issued late Sunday, marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Garowe and Mogadishu.
Federal–state disputes have long plagued Somalia’s fragile transition. Puntland, which has enjoyed semi-autonomy since 1998, argues that the central government is increasingly centralizing power — particularly in security and resource management — undermining the 2012 Provisional Constitution that enshrined federalism.
Regional leaders warn that unilateral policies risk destabilizing the delicate balance that has kept Somalia’s regions aligned with the federal project. “The president’s actions are reversing the progress we’ve made toward unity,” a Puntland official said.
The standoff highlights the core question facing Somalia: whether its governance model will tilt toward a strong unitary state or remain a loose federation. Analysts warn that alienating Puntland — historically the most stable region — could complicate upcoming electoral reforms and embolden separatist movements in Somaliland.
