The administration of Mudug region in Puntland has banned the holding of political meetings and gatherings without prior government approval, citing security and public order concerns.

In a directive issued by Mudug Regional Governor Abdullahi Jibril Bayle, regional authorities instructed security agencies and district administrations to prevent any unauthorized political meetings from taking place across the region.

The statement directed the Mudug Regional Police Commander, the regional National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) chief, and district commissioners to ensure that no political meetings are held in hotels or other public venues without authorization from the regional administration.

Authorities also instructed hotel owners, conference hall operators, and managers of public venues not to host political gatherings unless organizers have obtained official permission from the government.

The Mudug regional administration warned that individuals or businesses found violating the directive would face legal action in accordance with Puntland’s laws.

The decision comes amid heightened political activity in Puntland ahead of upcoming political processes and follows a similar directive issued recently in Karkaar region, where authorities also prohibited political meetings and gatherings that had not been approved or coordinated with the Puntland government.

The latest restrictions are expected to draw attention as political stakeholders continue consultations on Puntland’s political and governance agenda, with authorities insisting that the measures are intended to maintain security and public stability.