Mogadishu, Somalia – Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has expressed a willingness to compromise with Puntland, but only if the region’s demands align with the broader national interest. His remarks come as Puntland officials boycotted the second day of the National Consultative Council (NCC) talks in Mogadishu, escalating tensions with the federal government.
The standoff highlights deepening divisions between Villa Somalia and Puntland, which has increasingly asserted autonomy over federal processes. The PM’s statement suggests openness to dialogue but underscores the government’s insistence on unity and constitutional order.
Observers say the ongoing impasse threatens to derail progress on key national priorities, including security coordination, electoral reforms, and revenue sharing. Efforts to bring Puntland back to the negotiating table are expected to intensify in the coming days.