Puntland's Deni Faces Criticism Over Somaliland Secession Push

Added: 2026-05-21

[00:00:00]A war of words has erupted between Somalia's federal government and the puntland state. The catalyst is a puntland delegation attending Somaland self-proclaimed independence adversary in Hargesa. Interior Minister Ali Yusf Ali known as Hos has now fired back. He indirectly accused Puntland's President Sah Abdullah Hideeni of using the secession issue for political gain.

[00:00:25]Minister Hos warned that no political success can be built on dividing Somalia. He said no Somali leader will win votes by glorifying the country's dismemberment. The controversy began when a Puntland cultural delegation led by the traditional elder Yasin Mus Bhar attended the 18th May celebration in Hargesa. The delegation reportedly expressed respect for Somaland's existence and claimed supports its cause. That statement triggered a storm on social media and a sharp response from Gadishu. Political analysts say this is not just about Somaliand. The attack on Denny reflects a much deeper crisis between the federal government and Puntland. The two sides remain locked in dispute over national elections, the constitutional review process, and the very nature of Somalia's federal system. For now, the federal minister has made one thing clear. Any attempt to weaken Somalia's unity will not bring political victory.

[00:01:23]But with Puntland pushing back against Mugadishu's authority, this confrontation is far from over.