Puntland President Deni warns of threat to Somalia’s statehood

Puntland State President Said Abdullahi Deni has warned that Somalia’s political crisis is threatening the nation’s statehood and federal system. Speaking at the opening of the 59th session of the Puntland parliament, Deni accused the federal government of dismantling the country’s federal structure and abandoning key political agreements, including the 2012 provisional constitution.

Deni specifically criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, alleging that the administration has rejected consensus-based elections and obstructed dialogue intended to resolve political disputes. He further claimed that the federal government has deployed national security forces in ways that contribute to instability and have enabled the seizure of public and private property.

To address these disputes over elections, constitutional amendments, and the balance of power between Mogadishu and federal member states, Deni called for an urgent national conference. He also raised concerns regarding security, alleging that officials have been targeted in drone attacks and that previously peaceful areas are being pushed into turmoil.