On Thursday, President Said Abdullahi Deni has announced a 7-day amnesty for Puntland citizens collaborating with ISIS militants.
This reflects a strategic approach to counter-terrorism, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration over punitive measures.
By offering a window for individuals to disengage from extremist activities, the government aims to weaken the operational capacity of terrorist groups while encouraging those involved to return to lawful society.
This initiative also signals the government’s awareness of the individuals involved, likely through intelligence efforts, and its commitment to addressing the root causes of radicalization.
However, the success of such an amnesty depends on clear communication, trust-building, and ensuring that those who surrender are provided with pathways to reintegrate, such as access to education, employment, and psychological support.
For those who do not take advantage of the amnesty, the threat of legal action underscores the government’s resolve to enforce the rule of law.
This balanced approach—combining leniency with accountability—could serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar challenges, provided it is implemented transparently and with adequate support systems in place.