MOGADISHU, (HAN) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre are expected to travel to Lasanod in the coming days to attend the official inauguration ceremony of the newly elected President of the Northeastern Regional Administration, Abdikadir Ahmed Aw Ali, and his deputy, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril.
The event, which organizers describe as a national-level ceremony, will bring together senior federal government officials, members of parliament, cabinet ministers, traditional elders, representatives of civil society, and foreign dignitaries.
The inauguration is seen as a milestone moment in the establishment of the new Northeastern administration, which aims to enhance local governance and promote reconciliation in the historically contested regions of Sool and Sanaag.
Sources within Villa Somalia confirmed that the President’s attendance reflects the federal government’s commitment to strengthening decentralization and supporting emerging regional administrations under the federal framework.
The Prime Minister is also expected to address the ceremony, reaffirming the government’s dedication to inclusive governance, peace, and stability across all regions of Somalia.
However, political observers say the high-level federal participation could trigger new tensions with the Somaliland and Puntland administrations, both of which have long claimed jurisdiction over the Sool and Sanaag regions. The town of Lasanod, where the ceremony will take place, has been the epicenter of a prolonged territorial and political dispute between the two entities.
If President Mohamud and Prime Minister Barre attend the ceremony, it would be the first official federal government visit to Lasanod in years — a symbolic act that could reshape the political landscape in northern Somalia.
Local residents and community leaders have welcomed the move, expressing optimism that the recognition of the Northeastern administration will lead to improved governance, service delivery, and economic recovery after years of instability.
Security preparations are reportedly underway in Lasanod to ensure the safety of high-profile guests and participants. The event is expected to feature traditional cultural performances, speeches by national and regional leaders, and a formal oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected officials.
The inauguration marks a critical step in Somalia’s broader state-building efforts, as Mogadishu seeks to reinforce unity, expand federal authority, and encourage peaceful coexistence among the country’s diverse regions.
