Friday, 27 June 2025 — HAN
Garowe — A deepening political divide has emerged in Somalia, as the regional states of Puntland and Jubbaland jointly announced that they have withdrawn their confidence in the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). In a strongly worded communiqué issued at the conclusion of a high-level summit held in Garowe from 23–26 June 2025, the two administrations accused the FGS of repeatedly violating the Provisional Constitution, unlawfully centralizing power, and using international aid, airspace management, and influence over regional elections for political purposes.
The joint statement directly criticized the FGS for failing to uphold the foundational agreements that shaped Somalia’s federal system. “The FGS has clearly breached the Provisional Constitution by exploiting national powers for political interests and exerting pressure on federal member states,” the statement said.
International Appeal and Rejection of Federal Representation
Puntland and Jubbaland declared that they no longer recognize the FGS as a legitimate representative of the interests of all Somali people. In a significant move reflecting the growing political standoff, both states announced plans to formally lodge a complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), calling for an independent assessment of how Somalia’s airspace is managed—challenging the authority of the federal government at the international level.
This development highlights the widening rift between the FGS and key federal member states. Political analysts warn that such tensions could further weaken Somalia’s fragile federal structure and deepen the already sensitive relationship between the central government and regional administrations.
Democratization and Puntland’s Commitment to ‘One Person, One Vote’
The statement also emphasized Puntland’s readiness to conduct direct elections, describing it as a genuine step toward strengthening democracy in Somalia. The move is seen as both a message of encouragement to other states and a declaration of Puntland’s intent to lead electoral reform efforts in the country.
However, both Puntland and Jubbaland accused the FGS of interfering in their electoral processes, arguing that such interference is aimed at undermining democratic progress within the regions.
Direct Appeal to the International Community
Puntland and Jubbaland called on the international community—particularly Somalia’s key partners—not to offer unconditional support to the central government. Instead, they urged donors and allies to adopt a balanced approach that prioritizes good governance, transparency, and respect for the constitution.
“The FGS has repeatedly used international aid as a tool to pressure independent administrations, which undermines the political autonomy of the regions,” the statement said. The two states further warned against using politicized administrations as channels for delivering humanitarian assistance, describing such practices as unacceptable.
Conclusion: Federalism at a Crossroads
The Garowe declaration marks a critical turning point, underscoring that the dispute between the federal government and certain member states has reached its most dangerous phase yet. The crisis touches on core issues such as constitutional integrity, electoral processes, resource management, and international relations.
Experts warn that unless a comprehensive national solution is reached, the escalating standoff could lead to widespread political fragmentation, insecurity, and a collapse of the federal system agreed upon in 2012.
