Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) – The Somali Federal Government has firmly denied accusations from Somaliland and Puntland that it has deployed troops to the contested Sool and Sanaag regions, labeling the claims as baseless and without merit.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Minister of Defense Ahmed Macallin Fiqi addressed the allegations, emphasizing that Somali forces had not been sent to these regions. He further stated that there was no legitimate reason to deploy troops there.
“We clarify that the Somali Federal Government has not sent troops to the Sanaag and Sool regions, and there is no reason for such actions,” said Minister Fiqi.
Somaliland and Puntland have both accused the Somali government of overstepping its boundaries and interfering in regions they claim as part of their territories. In response, Ahmed Yasin Ali Ayanle, Minister of Information for Somaliland, held a press conference in Hargeisa accusing the Somali government of unwarranted military involvement in territories that Somaliland considers its own.
“Hassan, the consequences of sending troops to Sanaag are yours to bear, and no one will stand with you,” Ayanle stated, referencing Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Somaliland has long claimed part of the Sanaag region, including its capital, Ceerigaabo, while Puntland also asserts authority over the area. Both regional administrations have expressed concerns over Somali federal government involvement in what they view as their jurisdictions.
Minister Fiqi, however, stated that the accusations lacked credible evidence, suggesting that internal political divisions within the region had clouded the understanding of local needs. He reiterated that the Sool and Sanaag regions are part of the SSC-Khatumo administration, which the Somali Federal Government officially recognizes as an independent regional state. The SSC-Khatumo administration is nearing completion of its establishment as a full-fledged regional entity.
“The Federal system is a constitutional system adopted by the country, and its implementation and protection are the responsibility of everyone,” Minister Fiqi added, reaffirming the Somali government’s commitment to federalism.
Despite the Somali Federal Government’s denial, tensions remain high as disputes over the control of Sool and Sanaag continue between Somaliland, Puntland, and SSC-Khatumo, with no resolution in sight.
