Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas, the former President of Puntland and current African Union (AU) envoy to South Sudan, has called on the Puntland administration to welcome the newly formed Khaatumo State in northeastern Somalia rather than oppose it.
Speaking about the formation of the new regional administration, which brings together the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and parts of Togdheer, Gaas urged Puntland leaders to take a more conciliatory approach.
“I hope the Puntland administration does not demonize this new administration but instead welcomes it. What unites you is far greater than the minor disputes between you,” said Gaas, who also previously served as Somalia’s Prime Minister.
The Puntland government, led by President Said Abdullahi Deni, has firmly rejected the establishment of the new Khaatumo administration. It has recently increased its presence in parts of Sanaag, signaling its intent to reinforce control over the contested regions.
Tensions have escalated as Puntland views the Khaatumo initiative as a threat to its territorial integrity, while supporters of the new administration argue it represents local aspirations for self-governance and stability in a historically contested area.
