In a statement released on Friday, officials from the Northeastern administration claimed that fighting erupted in Bo’ame on Friday afternoon after Puntland forces allegedly carried out an attack on positions controlled by local security units loyal to the new regional authority.

The statement said several people were injured during the confrontation, though it did not specify the number of casualties.

Bo’ame District Commissioner Mahdi Rashaad condemned the alleged assault, accusing Puntland of “trying to create insecurity and chaos in the district” to undermine the Northeastern administration’s efforts to establish governance structures in the area.

“This attack is an attempt to destabilize the district and disrupt peace among local communities,” Rashaad said in the statement. “Our forces acted in self-defense to protect the residents of Boocame.”

The Puntland government, based in Garowe, has not yet issued an official response to the accusations. However, officials in Garowe have previously rejected the legitimacy of the newly formed Northeastern administration, calling it an unconstitutional entity that threatens Puntland’s territorial integrity.

Boocame, located approximately 70 kilometers east of Garowe, has become a focal point in the growing rivalry between Puntland and the Northeastern administration. The town holds strategic importance due to its location along key transport routes linking the Sool and Nugaal regions.

Puntland’s Vice President Ilyas Lugatoor, who hails from Boocame, has repeatedly stated that the district remains an integral part of Puntland.

Conversely, leaders of the Northeastern administration insist that Boocame falls under their jurisdiction, arguing that Puntland has failed to adequately represent or develop parts of the Sool and eastern Nugaal regions.

The political friction dates back several months, following the Northeastern administration’s announcement of its formation amid growing dissatisfaction with Puntland’s leadership and governance.

Puntland authorities have dismissed the breakaway initiative as illegitimate, while local leaders in the newly declared state have vowed to continue establishing administrative offices and local councils.

Boocame has also been a flashpoint in previous disputes. During Puntland’s preparations for the one-person, one-vote local elections, the region saw political unrest after Puntland’s electoral commission reportedly suspended voter registration in parts of Sool, including Boocame, due to security concerns and local opposition.

Analysts warn that the latest confrontation could further destabilize the already volatile Sool region, which has witnessed recurrent conflicts over administrative boundaries and clan-based political divisions.

The situation remains tense, and residents have expressed fears that renewed clashes could displace civilians and disrupt fragile peace efforts in the region.

As of Friday evening, local sources reported sporadic gunfire but said the area had calmed by nightfall, with both sides maintaining defensive positions around the town.

The Federal Government of Somalia has not yet commented on the incident, though calls are growing for Mogadishu to intervene diplomatically to prevent further escalation between the rival administrations.

The post Clashes Reported in Bo’ame as Tensions Rise Between Puntland and Newly Formed Northeastern Administration appeared first on Kaab TV.

According to the NCC communiqué, SSC-Khaatumo will officially join the federal system after a local clan conference is completed within the next two months.

This came after SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdiqadir Aw-Ali Firdhiye participated in his first National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting held from May 5 to 7.

However, the move has triggered a political Pandora’s box, adding fresh complications to Somalia’s already fragile and poorly defined federal structure.

The core problem lies in Somalia’s Provisional Constitution, which leaves the formation of Federal Member States (FMS) open to interpretation. Article 49(6) states: “Based on a voluntary decision, two or more regions may merge to form a Federal Member State.”

This provision makes clear that no single region can become a federal state on its own.

Meanwhile, Article 142(1) recognizes existing Federal Member States that were established before the constitution’s adoption, allowing them to maintain their powers temporarily until all FMS are properly formed and harmonized with the national constitution.

Yet, in practice, the formation of federal states has been inconsistent, often determined by clan-based arrangements rather than geographic or legal criteria.

For example, Galmudug was formed by merging Galgaduud with only part of Mudug—leaving the rest of Mudug within Puntland.

Though controversial, the Federal Government framed Galmudug’s creation as a political solution rather than a strictly legal one.

The Case of SSC-Khaatumo

The recognition of SSC-Khaatumo followed a deadly conflict in Las Anod in August 2023, where Dhulbahante militias fought Somaliland forces.

Las Anod was subsequently declared the capital of SSC-Khaatumo, an entity claiming to represent the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions.

In reality, however, Sanaag has not joined the project, and “Cayn” refers only to Buuhoodle, a town that formerly fell under Togdheer region.

This means SSC-Khaatumo effectively governs only parts of Sool—falling short of the constitutional requirement that two or more regions must voluntarily merge to form a federal state.

Domino Effect in the Regions

SSC-Khaatumo’s recognition has sparked similar demands across the country.

On Saturday, Beledweyne—Hiiraan’s capital—was seized by former warlord Abdifatah Hassan Ali and his clan militia.

They claim to be establishing “Hiiraan State,” an initiative previously proposed but never recognized.

The Hirshabelle State, which governs Hiiraan, has not responded. Locals now fear violent clashes if Hirshabelle attempts to retake control.

Elders and exiled politicians from the Somaliland’s Awdal region, which borders Djibouti, have long advocated for federal member state status under Somalia.

Unable to safely campaign within Somaliland, they’ve been meeting in Mogadishu.

Tensions have also flared in Gedo, Jubbland, where community leaders have long rejected the leadership of Jubbaland President Ahmed Madobe.

The NCC’s recent remarks about forming a “legal” Jubbaland have emboldened calls from Gedo clans to seek separation.

Residents of Banadir, which includes Mogadishu, continue to push for their own federal status. However, the federal government has been reluctant to allow this, fearing the loss of revenue generated by Mogadishu’s seaport and airport.

Ripple Effects on Existing States

Analysts warn that the SSC-Khaatumo decision may destabilize other federal states.

In Southwest State, some clans in Lower Shabelle have begun advocating for separation.

In Galmudug, residents of Elbur are discussing breaking away from the current state structure.

These growing fissures reflect the absence of a uniform, legally binding process for federalization—leaving room for political opportunism and rising clan-based fragmentation.

The post A Political Pandora’s Box: Somalia’s Recognition of SSC-Khaatumo as a Federal Member State appeared first on Kaab TV.

On Wednesday, Puntland released 15 Somaliland prisoners captured during the August 2023 battle in Goojacadde, Las Anod—a region once contested by both Hargeisa and Garowe, but now under the control of SSC-Khaatumo.

The detainees, dressed in suits, were flown from Garowe and received in Hargeisa, marking a significant symbolic moment.

For the first time, Puntland sent senior advisers from the presidential office to Somaliland’s capital—an unprecedented move given Somaliland’s self-declared independence from Somalia.

In return, Somaliland released 11 Puntland detainees held in Hargeisa prison.

Authorities in Hargeisa provided each freed prisoner with a $500 cash grant upon their departure.

Traditional elders, led by King Osman Mohamud Buurmadow of the Isaaq clan, accompanied the Puntland returnees aboard a chartered flight.

Collaboration between Puntland and Somaliland

In a press statement, the Puntland presidency confirmed the prisoner swap was the result of a direct agreement between the two sides, without federal involvement.

Puntland’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Farah Said, said the deal was made independently.

“Tomorrow matters more than yesterday. This is the time for both sides to work together against extremism and for opportunity,” Abdi Farah said during a reception for the delegation in Garowe.

Somaliland also welcomed the renewed contact.

Speaking in Garowe, King Buurmadow described the exchange as a step toward ending hostilities.

“When we cooperate, we can achieve great things,” he said.

The influential elder suggested that collaboration between Puntland and Somaliland could reshape Somali federal politics—a possible indication of aligning forces ahead of the Somali federal elections in 2026.

However, the move has drawn criticism from SSC-Khaatumo and the Federal Government in Mogadishu.

Both claimed credit for facilitating the release—claims Puntland has rejected.

Federal Ministry of Justice and SSC-Khaatumo Justice Department said the process was part of ongoing federal efforts, while Puntland dismissed those statements as inaccurate.

Federal Minister of Energy, Abdullahi Bidhan, who hails from Las Anod, accused Puntland President Said Deni of opposing SSC-Khaatumo’s recognition by Mogadishu.

He linked the timing of the exchange to federal tensions and recent visits to Las Anod by federal leaders.

In response, Puntland’s Minister of the Presidency, Abdifatah Abdinuur, accused Bidhan and Villa Somalia of “attempting to sow discord between Puntland and SSC-Khaatumo through financial and political manipulation”.

While Puntland has not endorsed secession, the Garowe leadership continues to advocate for a confederal model in Somalia, seeking greater regional autonomy.

The prisoner exchange may mark a rare thaw in relations between the two northern states of Puntland and Somaliland, which have long been at odds over territory dispute.

The post Prisoner Exchange Marks New Chapter in Puntland–Somaliland Relations appeared first on Kaab TV.

Sources close to the Puntland presidency have confirmed that nine prisoners currently held in Puntland prisons, who were captured from Somaliland, will be transferred from Garowe tomorrow.

In return, Somaliland is set to release 11 prisoners originally from Puntland.

This marks the first such agreement aimed at normalizing relations between the two neighboring regions, which have long been at odds.

Puntland and Somaliland have been in dispute over the Sool and Sanaag regions. However, in 2023, following a major conflict in Las Anod, a new administration called SSC-Khaatumo was established.

Somaliland considers itself an independent state, while Puntland is a federal member state of Somalia.

Sources in Hargeisa indicate that this prisoner release reflects a new thaw in relations between Hargeisa and Garowe.

During the Las Anod conflict, Puntland supported the local population with troops, weapons, and finances, which contributed to Somaliland’s defeat in the August 2023 battle.

However, relations between Puntland and SSC-Khaatumo have recently soured, particularly after SSC-Khaatumo aligned itself with the Federal Government of Somalia — a government that Puntland currently has strained ties and deep disagreements with.

The post Puntland and Somaliland Set to Exchange Prisoners in Landmark Agreement appeared first on Kaab TV.

A directive released by the Minister of Interior, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, has given all undocumented foreigners a deadline of three days to leave the region.

“The Minister of Interior and Security, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, has issued an order regarding foreign nationals who do not possess legal documentation for the Republic of Somaliland,” the decree stated, which was released today, Tuesday.

The three-day period begins on Wednesday, April 30, and ends on May 2, 2025.

The directive did not clarify who exactly is considered a foreigner under this order.

Somaliland, known for being relatively stable compared to other parts of Somalia, hosts a diverse population, including Ethiopian migrants, people displaced from southern Somalia, and some from countries such as Yemen, Syria, and others.

In 2022, Somaliland deported thousands of people from the city of Las Anod, many of whom were from the southern Somalia.

Authorities claimed they were undocumented foreigners causing insecurity in the area.

Recently, international media reported that U.S. President Donald Trump was considering relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Somaliland and Puntland, regions perceived to be safer than the rest of Somalia.

The post All Undocumented Foreigners Ordered to Leave Somaliland Within Three Days – Decree appeared first on Kaab TV.

National Situation and Governance

President Irro acknowledged that Somaliland has faced serious internal challenges in recent years, including economic decline over the past three years, weakened national unity, setbacks in democratic processes, and political disputes that delayed elections.

However, he emphasized that the security situation is improving, economic activities are stabilizing, and public services and governance systems are undergoing broad reforms.

“We are implementing large-scale reforms in our judiciary, administrative institutions, and public service delivery,” he said.

International Relations and Recognition

President Irro underlined his administration’s commitment to reviving Somaliland’s international relations and lobbying for global recognition.

“We seek to convince the world of our rightful claim to recognition, and we will remain loyal to those who support us,” he stated.

He highlighted the UAE’s investment support in key sectors such as livestock, agriculture, fishing, mining, health, education, water, and infrastructure.

Participation in the World Governments Summit – Dubai

President Irro noted that Somaliland received a formal invitation to participate in the World Governments Summit held in Dubai, which hosted representatives from over 140 countries.

“It was a golden opportunity to promote Somaliland’s investment potential. Our message reached over 50 million people globally,” he said.

He also spoke of efforts to strengthen relations with the United States, particularly in light of current Red Sea security concerns involving the Houthi movement in Yemen.

The UK has supported Somaliland in security and provided multi-sectoral cooperation.

Relations with Ethiopia and Djibouti

Irro announced plans to deepen Somaliland’s historic and cooperative relations with Ethiopia and Djibouti and confirmed upcoming visits to both countries.

Ethiopia is a strategic neighbor for Somaliland, with both sides signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding in January 2024 to grant Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through Somaliland’s coastline.

Internal Security Reforms

President Irro stressed the importance of peace and stability, announcing the integration of clan militia into the national security forces through disarmament and training programs.

“To strengthen national defense, my government is officially announcing the formation of a National Reserve Force,” he declared.

Security at airports and coastal areas has been reinforced, including the deployment of 700 newly trained coast guards.

Climate Change and Environmental Protection

He called climate change one of the greatest threats to Somaliland’s economy and outlined plans to protect the environment and ensure food and water security.

His government aims to plant 3 million trees over its term, with 600,000 trees planted annually.

“We launched the National Tree Planting Day on April 15 with a target of 300,000 trees this year alone,” he added.

Condemnation of Somali PM’s Visit to Las Anod

President Irro strongly condemned Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s April 16 visit to Las Anod, calling it a “clear violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty and a hostile act meant to undermine peace efforts.”

“We have officially informed the international community and warn that such actions could trigger civil conflict,” he warned.

In response, President Irro announced that Somaliland has suspended ongoing talks with Somalia due to the Somali Prime Minister’s visit to the disputed region.

The post Somaliland President Irro Addresses Parliament: Focuses on National Recovery, International Recognition, and Security Reform appeared first on Kaab TV.

President Irro made the remarks today during his annual address to the Somaliland Parliament on Sunday.

“The position of the Somaliland government regarding the visit of Somalia’s Prime Minister to the eastern Sool region of Somaliland was clearly outlined in the communiqué issued after the 16th meeting of the Somaliland Council of Ministers, which I chaired on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. In that meeting, the Republic of Somaliland officially withdrew from talks with Somalia,” said President Irro.

Prime Minister Hamza paid a three-day visit to Las Anod last week where he met officials of the SSC-Khaatumo.

During the visit the SSC-Khaatumo released 25 prisoners of war of Somaliland who were captured during the August 2023 conflict between Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo clan forces.

“Open Act of Aggression”

Irro accused Hamza Abdi Barre of attempting to destabilize Somaliland and warned that such provocation could lead to “civil conflict.”

“My government has informed the international community that the arrival of Somalia’s Prime Minister is a violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty and an outright act of aggression against the Republic of Somaliland. This move aims to destabilize and undermine the peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts that Somaliland has pursued with great effort and determination,” Irro added.

“Once again, we warn that this violation could quickly spark civil conflict.”

He stated that Somaliland has informed neighboring countries about its ongoing peace efforts.

“Somaliland continues to notify neighboring countries and the international community that it remains committed to its peacebuilding, reconciliation, and good-neighborly efforts. However, it must also remind them that it retains the full capability to defend itself against any aggression,” said President Cirro.

The post Somaliland President Irro Describes Somalia PM’s Las Anod Visit as an “Open Act of Aggression” appeared first on Kaab TV.