Garowe, Puntland — Four of Puntland’s leading political parties — IFIYE, MUSTAQBAL, MIDEEYE, and SINCAD — have strongly denounced a newly signed agreement between Puntland and Somaliland authorities, calling it “unconstitutional” and a direct threat to Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday after an emergency meeting in Garowe, the parties accused the Puntland administration of acting unilaterally without consulting political stakeholders, legislators, or the public. They described Somaliland as a “secessionist entity” and warned that any formal engagement undermines Puntland’s autonomy and the Somali Republic’s constitutional framework.
The parties’ nine-point declaration rejected the deal in its entirety, asserting it lacks any legal foundation under Puntland or Somali law. They cautioned that any recognition of Somaliland’s right to self-determination would be “illegal and null,” and urged the Puntland House of Representatives to annul the agreement immediately.
Additionally, the statement urged the Federal Government of Somalia to clarify its stance and resist any measures that erode the nation’s territorial integrity.
Calling for unity among Puntland’s citizens, the parties appealed for inclusive dialogue on regional governance and national cohesion. Concluding their statement, they reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Puntland’s constitutional order and defending Somalia’s unity, democracy, and federal system.
The disputed deal has sparked widespread debate across Somalia, with critics warning it could deepen divisions within the federal framework.