GAROWE — Brigadier General Jimcaale Jaamac Takar, who had been appointed by Somalia’s federal government (SFG) as commander of the 54th Division, has withdrawn from the position following an agreement reached with Puntland authorities, according to sources familiar with the development.
Takar’s decision represents a setback for the Federal Government of Somalia’s efforts to establish and strengthen federal military structures inside Puntland, where the regional administration has maintained firm control over its security forces.
The commander had been expected to play a key role in the federal government’s plans to organise forces under the 54th Division and expand the presence of federal security institutions in the region.
However, following negotiations with Puntland officials, Takar reportedly agreed to abandon the federal appointment and instead pursue an arrangement with the Puntland administration.
The development effectively brings an end to the latest federal plan to establish a new military force structure inside Puntland, at least for the time being, and highlights the continuing political and security disagreements between Mogadishu and Puntland over the control and organisation of armed forces.
Puntland has repeatedly opposed moves by the federal government that it considers an attempt to deploy or establish forces in areas under the regional administration’s authority without its approval.
The dispute also reflects wider tensions over Somalia’s federal system, including questions surrounding security responsibilities, military command structures and the authority of the federal government and member states.
Takar’s withdrawal is therefore likely to be viewed as a significant political and military setback for Mogadishu, while strengthening Puntland’s position in resisting the establishment of federal military structures within its territory.
The agreement between Takar and Puntland authorities has not yet been publicly released in full, and further details about his future role and the terms of the arrangement remain unclear.
