Puntland has condemned what it described as attacks by federal government forces on the homes of two prominent opposition leaders, warning that escalating political tensions in Somalia’s capital could threaten national stability.
In a statement issued following a cabinet meeting on Thursday, the Puntland administration expressed concern over the worsening political situation in Mogadishu, particularly disputes surrounding Somalia’s electoral process and broader political transition.
The meeting was chaired by Puntland’s Acting President and Vice President, Ilyas Osman Lugatoor, who led discussions on the country’s political climate and ongoing disagreements between the federal government and opposition figures.
Puntland strongly criticised the reported actions of federal security forces against the residences of former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre. The regional administration said President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud would bear responsibility for any consequences arising from the incidents.
The statement comes amid growing tensions over the future of Somalia’s electoral framework, a subject that has sparked disagreements among political stakeholders in recent months.
Puntland, a member of the Somali Future Council, urged all political actors to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further inflame the situation. It also appealed to the public to remain calm and refrain from activities that could contribute to insecurity or unrest.
The regional government renewed its call for an urgent national consultative conference involving the federal government and regional state leaders. It said such a meeting was necessary to reach consensus on the electoral process and safeguard political stability and security across the country.
The federal government has not yet publicly responded to Puntland’s latest statement.
