By Asho Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 17 January 2026 - The inauguration ceremony held in Las Anod transcends a simple change of leadership. It serves as a "political barometer," gauging the current temperature of the complex relationship between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and the various Federal Member States (FMS).
1. Federal Government Engagement
The event saw unprecedented participation from the highest levels of the central government, including:
• The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
• The Prime Minister.
• A significant cohort from the Executive and Legislative branches (cabinet ministers and members of Parliament).
The presence of these officials signifies a formal endorsement of the new administration. This is a calculated move to assert federal authority in regions previously contested by Somaliland—particularly in light of Somaliland's recent diplomatic overtures toward Israel. It reinforces the message that these territories remain an indivisible part of the Somali Union.
2. International Diplomatic Presence
The arrival of diplomatic delegations from Turkey, Sudan, and Saudi Arabia provides the new administration with a layer of international legitimacy. This suggests that the North East administration is beginning to be recognized as a distinct political entity on the global stage.
3. Regional Alignments: Galmudug
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The Galmudug administration, under President Ahmed Abdi Kariye ‘Qoor-qoor’, was prominently represented. This alignment underscores Galmudug’s role as the primary regional ally to Villa Somalia (the Presidency) and its commitment to the federal government's broader political agenda.
4. Notable Absences: Hirshabelle and South West State
Despite their historical proximity to the central government, both Hirshabelle and South West State were conspicuously absent. By failing to send even a basic delegation, these states have signaled a growing rift and potential new friction with the Presidency.
5. The Opposition Front: Puntland and Jubaland
• Puntland: Views this inauguration as a direct threat to its territorial integrity and political existence. This event has intensified Puntland's pre-existing decision to suspend cooperation with the federal government.
• Jubaland: Remains aligned with the opposition, further cementing a bloc that challenges the central government’s current direction.
Conclusion
In summary, the Las Anod inauguration has acted as a catalyst that clarifies the current Somali political landscape. While the Federal Government succeeded in projecting authority and securing international attention, the event has simultaneously exposed deep internal fractures.
The clear divide between the pro-government bloc (Galmudug) and the opposition alliance (Puntland and Jubaland), combined with the sudden distancing of Hirshabelle and South West State, suggests a period of heightened political instability ahead. Ultimately, while the ceremony was a victory for central recognition, it has deepened the regional polarization that continues to challenge Somali national unity.
