CARMO, Puntland (Kaab TV) – The President of Puntland State of, Sa’id Abdullahi Deni, has stated that Puntland needs strong defenses, warning that the region is facing attacks from multiple directions.
He made the remarks during a graduation ceremony for nearly 500 new police officers trained by Puntland, whose passing-out parade took place today in Carmo, Bari region.
“Puntland was established under difficult circumstances after the state collapse,” President Deni said, addressing officers, troops, and Puntland government officials.
Deni noted that 27 years on, Puntland has committed to strengthening and building its own security forces and state institutions.
He praised the United Arab Emirates for supporting Puntland’s institution-building and capacity-strengthening projects.
The president emphasized the need for Puntland to be prepared both internally and externally.
“Puntland and its territories require strong defense; attacks are coming from many sides,” Deni said.
He also expressed concern that Somalia is facing hopelessness, pointing out that clan politics have become entrenched within the state.
President Deni commended the recent success of Puntland forces in the Cal-Miskaad operation against ISIS militants, noting that troops would soon advance into the Cal Madow mountains, where extremist groups are hiding.
Attracting Investment
Deni stated that following the Al-Miskaad operation, Puntland has now drawn international investment interest.
He added that Puntland does not want Somalia to remain in perpetual collapse, but at the same time, Puntland cannot afford to wait if the rest of the country continues to be unstable.
“If other parts of Somalia continue to face crises, areas like Puntland must set an example and, one day, become the safe haven for the country’s future,” Deni said.
His comments come as Puntland continues its fight against ISIS (Somalia), with its forces battling militants in Bari region’s mountains for more than nine months.
At the same time, Puntland is also facing political tensions in Sanaag and Sool, where President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s federal government has recently launched activities challenging Puntland’s authority.
Deadly clashes broke out last month in Sanaag after armed groups opposed to Puntland attempted to hold political gatherings in Dhahar district.
Puntland has also rejected the newly announced Khaatumo administration – now rebranded as the “North East State” – which Mogadishu is backing.