Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has confirmed that he will not seek a third term in office, ending speculation over whether he would attempt to remain in power beyond his current mandate.
Mr Deni said his decision was based on Puntland’s constitution, which limits the president to a maximum of two terms. Each presidential term lasts five years.
The president also said he would support and help build the campaign of the candidate chosen by his Kaah political party to contest the presidency when elections are held in 2029.
His announcement rules out the possibility of a third-term bid and could have significant implications for Puntland’s political landscape, particularly as potential candidates begin positioning themselves ahead of the next election.
Mr Deni was first elected president of Puntland in 2019 and was re-elected in 2024 for a second five-year term.
His remarks came amid debate over Article 79 of the Puntland constitution, which sets out the president’s term limits. Opposition figures had expressed concern over the possibility that the provision could be opened for amendment, potentially allowing the president to seek another term.
The next Puntland presidential election is scheduled for 8 January 2029. Under Puntland’s constitutional arrangements, the election is expected to take place on schedule, a system that distinguishes Puntland from some other federal member states of Somalia, where electoral timetables have at times been subject to political disputes and delays.
