GAROWE, Somalia – The President of Puntland State, Said Abdullahi Deni, has once again spoken out about the political situation in Somalia, emphasizing the critical stage the country is currently facing and the tough decisions that lie ahead for both the federal government and regional state leaders.
President Deni stressed that Somalia is in a sensitive phase, urging for unified and decisive actions before the international community makes decisions that may not align with the interests of Somali politicians or the public at large.
“A country cannot be governed through propaganda — the truth must be confronted. I call on all Somalis and the international community to face reality. If not, we risk entering a more dangerous phase that benefits no one. Before that happens, let’s come to the negotiating table,” Deni stated.
He further added:
“Anyone willing to contribute positively to their country should be accepted. If they are right, they should be supported; if not, their fellow countrymen will hold them accountable. There’s no room for division here, and Puntland is ready to play its part clearly and constructively.”
These remarks come two days after President Deni placed conditions on attending a forthcoming summit in Mogadishu, convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Deni insisted that Puntland will continue to boycott such meetings until the federal government returns to prior agreements that were allegedly breached — agreements which he says lie at the heart of the current disputes.
President Deni made it clear he will not attend the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting scheduled for May 1st at Villa Somalia, which will be chaired by President Hassan Sheikh.
“Our absence from the NCC summit is due to deviations from previously agreed commitments. Until those are honored, no one should expect us to return. President Hassan Sheikh must fulfill his promise of inclusive dialogue and return to agreed frameworks,” Deni said.
He also emphasized that the dialogue initiative he previously proposed in Garowe still stands, and Puntland remains open to genuine negotiations and a sustainable agreement.
Deni has been absent from NCC meetings since December 2022, following the escalation of tensions between Puntland and the federal government. The relationship between the two sides has significantly deteriorated, with notable breakdowns in communication and cooperation, largely due to ongoing political disputes.
HORN LIFE
