GAROWE (Kaab TV) – The Puntland government has reaffirmed its authority over the regions of Sool and Cayn, declaring them an inseparable part of its territory and governance.
The statement comes in direct response to the recent interim recognition granted to the SSC-Khaatumo administration by the Federal Government of Somalia.
In an official press release issued by the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Democratization, Puntland dismissed the legitimacy of the SSC-Khaatumo entity and stressed that any new regional administration must be established through a legal and consultative process, as outlined in the Puntland Constitution of 1998.
The statement highlighted that the Dhulbahante community, which primarily inhabits the contested regions, played a key role in the founding of the Puntland State.
Puntland also expressed support for the February 6, 2023 decision by Dhulbahante elders in Laascaanood, as well as Puntland’s involvement in the August 25, 2023 operation that led to the reassertion of control over the Sool region.
Puntland said it welcomed further dialogue among Dhulbahante traditional leaders and intellectuals, encouraging a wider Puntland-wide consultative conference to determine the political and administrative future of the region through consensus.
The ministry’s statement outlined three main points:
Sool and Cayn belong to Puntland: In accordance with Articles 7 and 138 of the Puntland Constitution, Sool and Cayn—along with the communities residing there—are recognized as founding stakeholders in Puntland’s governance and remain under its full jurisdiction.
New administrations must follow legal procedures: Any region or clan wishing to establish a separate administration within Puntland must first engage in a lawful, consultative process with all constituent communities of Puntland.
Federal Government interference condemned: Puntland accused the Federal Government of Somalia of interfering in its internal affairs and attempting to destabilize the region. It warned that such actions threaten not only Puntland’s governance but also efforts to combat terrorism, including the fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS, in cooperation with international partners.
The Puntland government concluded by urging its citizens to stand united in defense of regional stability, security, and statehood.