Somalia: Federal Govt obstructing development projects in Puntland - MPs

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A section of legislators serving in the national governing from Puntland state has accused the federal government of Somalia of allegedly obstructing development to the region, noting that the discrimination is 'illegal and unacceptable'.

In a statement, the MPs claimed Somali Stability Fund meant for Puntland had been 'politicized' and called for immediate intervention from 'donors and members of the international community'. There must be equitable distribution of resources, they said.

The oldest federal state has been at loggerheads with the federal government for some time now. The legislators maintain the obstruction has affected critical development in infrastructure ranging from roads and schools to health centers.

"There must be some level of transparency and accountability," they said in a statement. This is the first time the legislators have addressed the issue since Puntland leader Said Abdullahi Deni cut ties with the government under Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Interestingly, Abdiqafar Hange the deputy minister of finance, reported that the federal government transferred more than $6.3 million in budgetary support to Puntland since July. The claims could not be ascertained by the Puntland leadership.

Earlier this year, Puntland regional authorities withdrew recognition for federal government institutions following differences over constitutional amendments. Without providing proof, Haange alleged that Deni “blocked” the resumption of “all” development projects worth hundreds of millions.

In March this year, authorities in the semi-autonomous Somali region of Puntland confirmed withdrawing recognition and confidence in the federal government institutions just hours after the federal parliament approved amendments to the first four chapters of the constitution.

In a statement read by Puntland Information Minister at that time Mohamud Aydid Dirir, Puntland said it would no longer recognize federal government institutions until the completion of a constitution agreed upon by all stakeholders including Puntland.

In response, Puntland said it will have a government with the “full powers of an independent state” until there is an inclusive federal government and a constitution agreed upon by all including Puntland, and approved through a referendum.

GAROWE ONLINE