MOGADISHU — Quiet, behind-the-scenes talks between Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Puntland leader Said Abdullahi Deni are tentatively easing months of political tension, officials and sources familiar with the discussions said.
The discreet negotiations, described as “sensitive” by insiders, aim to repair strained relations between the federal government in Mogadishu and the semi-autonomous Puntland administration, whose ties have deteriorated over disputes on governance, elections and resource-sharing.
Sources say the first phase of the talks has concluded, focusing largely on confidence-building measures and reducing hostile rhetoric that had escalated the standoff. The steps taken so far are being viewed as a test of political will on both sides, ahead of a more difficult second phase expected to address contentious issues including electoral cooperation and control over natural resources.
In what analysts see as a significant gesture, President Deni has moved to de-escalate tensions by reshuffling his administration. Two ministers—Juxa and Mohamed Abdiwahaab—were removed from their posts, while the information minister was reassigned to a less politically sensitive role, in what insiders describe as an effort to curb inflammatory public messaging directed at the federal leadership.
In parallel, federal lawmakers from Puntland have reportedly been urged to tone down or halt their public criticism of Villa Somalia. The move has contributed to a noticeable drop in political friction within parliament, where tensions had recently been running high.
At the heart of the ongoing negotiations are two key issues. The first concerns the upcoming federal elections, with both sides exploring a possible understanding to support a mutually agreed candidate or, at minimum, avoid a divisive contest that could deepen political fragmentation. The second issue revolves around oil governance—specifically Puntland’s representation in committees overseeing exploration and drilling projects led by Turkish companies, which are expected to play a critical role in Somalia’s future economy.
Diplomatic sources indicate that United Arab Emirates is closely monitoring the talks and has expressed concern over potential shifts that could affect its longstanding strategic and economic interests in Puntland, where it has maintained significant influence.
Despite cautious optimism, fresh tensions have emerged. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre have recently issued new criticisms, raising doubts among Puntland officials about Mogadishu’s commitment to a sustained political settlement.
Analysts warn that while the talks present a rare opportunity for rapprochement, the process remains fragile. “If both sides maintain restraint and follow through on confidence-building measures, a broader political agreement is possible,” one regional analyst said. “But recurring mistrust could quickly derail the progress made so far.”
The outcome of the negotiations is likely to shape Somalia’s political trajectory in the months ahead, particularly as the country approaches a critical electoral period and seeks to define the framework for managing its emerging oil resources.
