Somali President’s visit to Galmudug triggers security dispute in Galkayo

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is conducting a visit to the Galmudug regional state, an itinerary that has triggered heightened security tensions in the divided city of Galkayo. The President’s visit began in Dhuusamareeb, where he attended celebrations for the anniversary of Galmudug’s establishment. His scheduled itinerary includes attending a military training completion ceremony in Xananbuur and inaugurating various development projects.

However, the planned visit to Galkayo has sparked a political and security dispute. Puntland authorities have accused the Federal Government of using the presidential trip to provoke tensions and undermine regional security. In response, both Puntland and Galmudug have deployed additional security forces to the area. Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has met with security officials to coordinate a response, while Galmudug officials have defended the President’s right to travel within the country.

The friction highlights ongoing disputes between the Federal Government in Mogadishu and the Puntland administration regarding federal authority and the management of security forces. The movement of Somali National Army equipment and personnel has further complicated the situation in the sensitive, administratively divided city.