Somali Government Seeks Peaceful Talks with Puntland

Mogadishu, Somalia - The Somali Federal Government has expressed its commitment to resolving the political conflict with Puntland through dialogue and cooperation, according to Ahmed Macalin Fiqi, the Minister of Internal Affairs. In a special interview with The East African, a Kenyan-based newspaper, Fiqi expressed confidence in a peaceful solution being reached through negotiations and a cooperative process.

"Puntland is a significant member of our Federal State (FMS) and has always played an important role in the country's political process and the recovery of Somalia's nationalism," Fiqi said, emphasizing the importance of Puntland's role in Somalia.

The main issues of disagreement between the federal government and Puntland include drafting the constitution and completing Somalia's federalization process. Fiqi insisted that one of the most effective ways to address these issues is through dialogue while also maintaining that the government's priority is to complete the Constitution and the federal model.

In a recent meeting held in Baidoa, the leaders of Galmudug, HirShabelle, and South West were tasked with resolving the dispute between the federal government and Puntland. Although efforts have not yet officially begun, they are expected to commence after the month of Ramadan.

"Despite the differences of opinion, the federal government of Somalia is committed to talking with Puntland authorities, and we believe that cooperation and compromise are necessary to achieve our national goals," Fiqi emphasized.

However, critics have accused Puntland's President, Said Abdullahi Dani, of avoiding negotiations due to political and personal issues. With only ten months remaining in his term, President Dani unsuccessfully ran for President in 2022 and later sought the support of President-elect Hassan Sheikh to be appointed as Prime Minister, which was also denied.

Fiqi concluded the interview by reiterating his belief in peace and cooperation as the best way to resolve political differences in Somalia, stating, "We can work for a brighter future for Somalia by joining hands."

GAROWE ONLINE