Puntland president vows measured response amid Somalia’s political uncertainty

GAROWE, Somalia (GO) — Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni said his administration will respond to political developments at the global, regional and national levels with restraint and experience as Somalia faces what he described as a critical moment for its statehood.

Speaking at a meeting with young people in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland, Deni said the region’s political experience since its establishment continues to guide current decisions. He stressed that his government would avoid actions driven by haste or emotion.

Somalia, he said, is in a sensitive phase, with open debate over the future of the country’s governance. Deni attributed growing political polarization to what he called flawed policies by the Federal Government, saying those approaches have eroded trust and fueled calls to move away from the current system.

Deni reminded the audience that Puntland was founded to serve two purposes: to exist as a stable regional administration and to contribute to the pursuit of a united Somalia. He said unity must be built on respect, dialogue and mutual understanding, not through coercion, threats or political pressure.

Addressing young people, the president said Somalis have the right to make informed choices about their future. He urged Puntland’s youth to remain vigilant, ask critical questions and seek guidance from those with greater experience.

“What is happening now is not in the interest of the country or Puntland,” Deni said, questioning whether national unity can be achieved through insults, intimidation or political pressure.

He also criticized recent steps taken by the Federal Government, warning that undermining the agreed constitution would make meaningful unity impossible by removing the legal foundation meant to safeguard it. Puntland, he said, has long maintained that the constitution should not be altered without consensus.

Deni called on Somalis to reflect seriously on the current situation and to prioritize inclusive dialogue. If unilateral constitutional changes are not reversed, he said, Puntland would refrain from cooperation with the Federal Government in Mogadishu.

The president added that Puntland remains open to dialogue conducted through legitimate forums. He cited previous talks in Kismayo and an invitation for a broader meeting proposed for the 20th of the month. “If it is held, we will attend. If it is not, we will remain where we are — as we already have,” he said.

Deni emphasized that his criticism is directed at political leadership, not the people of southern Somalia. “They are our people, our family,” he said, accusing the current federal administration of pursuing division rather than genuine national unity.

He concluded by saying that if efforts toward a Somali-wide agreement continue to stall and constitutional protections further weaken, Puntland would consider other options. Any such steps, he said, would be lawful, deliberate and free of emotional reaction.

GAROWE ONLINE