GAROWE – The semi-autonomous state of Puntland has issued a stern warning regarding reports that Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud intends to visit Las Anod for the inauguration of the SSC-Khatumo (Northeastern Administration) leadership. Officials in Garowe cautioned that such a move could ignite further conflict in the disputed Sool region, accusing the Federal Government of “provoking hostilities” with Somaliland.
Tensions Rise Over Inauguration Plans
During a press conference in Garowe, Puntland’s Information Minister Mahmud Aydid Dirir addressed reports that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is preparing to attend the inauguration of Abdikadir Ahmed Aw Cali Firdhiye. The visit would mark a significant assertion of federal authority in Las Anod, a city that has been the epicenter of violent clashes and political upheaval over the past year.
Minister Dirir accused the President of using the visit to destabilize the region, alleging that Mogadishu is effectively “provoking conflict” between Sool residents and Somaliland authorities. The Minister claimed that the Federal Government has begun deploying military forces to the area, a move he described as a prelude to open hostilities against Hargeisa.
This development follows months of friction, where Puntland officials have previously accused the Federal Government of ignoring the complexities of the Las Anod crisis while seemingly exploiting the situation for political leverage.
Accusations of Foreign Military Involvement
In a significant escalation of rhetoric, the Puntland minister further alleged that the Federal Government is negotiating with Turkey to establish military installations within territories historically controlled by Puntland. He warned that inviting foreign military assets into contested zones would “escalate tensions throughout the Horn of Africa.”
These accusations appear to stem from deepening mistrust between Garowe and Mogadishu regarding security partnerships. The claims align with broader regional anxieties following the recent diplomatic shockwave caused by Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, which has prompted the Federal Government to seek stronger military backing from allies like Turkey and Egypt.
Somaliland Fortifies Defenses
Meanwhile, authorities in Somaliland are reportedly reorganizing their security forces in anticipation of potential escalations. The breakaway region views the Somali President’s potential presence in Las Anod—a city it claims as its own—as a “highly provocative” violation of its territorial integrity.
Reports suggest that Las Anod has become a focal point for military operations targeting Somaliland, with federal influence growing in the wake of the SSC-Khatumo administration’s establishment. As both sides entrench their positions, the planned presidential visit threatens to turn the cold diplomatic war into active confrontation.
