Garowe, Somalia – In a joint communiqué released today, the Federal Member States of Puntland and Jubbaland have outlined their unified stance on various pressing political issues impacting Somalia’s governance and future.
The two administrations reaffirmed their commitment to working together toward the realization of a complete federal system in Somalia, rooted in peace and guided by the Provisional Constitution that was agreed upon in 2012.
Puntland and Jubbaland declared any attempts to unilaterally amend the Provisional Constitution as illegitimate and unconstitutional, stating that federal institutions do not have the authority to make such changes without broad consensus.
The joint statement stressed that any constitutional amendments made outside the legal framework would not be recognized and would hold no legal effect within the country.
Both states urged the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to uphold the agreed Provisional Constitution and warned against actions that could lead to societal fragmentation with irreversible consequences.
Puntland and Jubbaland called on all Federal Member States to organize their own local elections in accordance with their regional constitutions and the national Provisional Constitution.
They further encouraged states that have not yet held district-level elections to establish electoral committees and conduct democratic elections for local councils.
In a direct appeal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the two regional leaders emphasized the importance of respecting the constitution, preserving national unity, and protecting the integrity of the Somali state.
The statement also welcomed the ongoing efforts of the National Salvation Forum aimed at ensuring inclusive elections are held on time and that Somalia is shielded from potential political backsliding.
Moreover, Puntland and Jubbaland accused the Federal Government of politicizing international humanitarian aid, alleging that such aid is being used as a tool to create divisions and exert political influence over rival administrations.
They urged the international community to reconsider its development aid distribution mechanisms, advocating for a more neutral approach that does not rely solely on federal channels.
Lastly, the two administrations reaffirmed their constitutional rights over key areas such as airspace management and announced plans to file a formal complaint against United Nations agencies they believe have overstepped their mandates.
