MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre on Thursday launched one of his strongest public attacks yet against Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, underscoring a deepening political dispute between the federal government and the semi-autonomous region.
Speaking at a public event, Barre accused Puntland’s leadership of obstructing national efforts aimed at strengthening Somalia’s federal institutions and advancing political reforms.
“If you want division, go ahead,” the prime minister said in remarks widely interpreted as being directed at Deni, reflecting growing tensions between Mogadishu and Puntland over constitutional amendments, power-sharing arrangements and the future structure of Somalia’s federal system.
The sharp exchange comes amid months of disagreement between the two sides. Puntland has repeatedly criticized constitutional changes approved by the federal government, arguing that key decisions were made without broad political consensus among federal member states.
Barre’s remarks appeared to be a direct response to comments made by Deni on July 1 during celebrations marking Somalia’s Independence and Unity Day. In his speech, the Puntland leader sharply criticized the federal government’s handling of political affairs and accused Mogadishu of undermining the federal framework, further escalating tensions between the two sides.
Separately, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud acknowledged the extent of the breakdown in relations, saying there was currently no meaningful cooperation between the federal government and Puntland.
“As things stand today, there is nothing connecting Puntland and the Federal Government,” the president said, highlighting the seriousness of the political standoff.
Puntland suspended its cooperation of federal institutions last year following disputes over constitutional reforms and electoral arrangements, creating one of the most significant political challenges facing Somalia’s leadership.
Political analysts warn that the increasingly confrontational rhetoric risks widening divisions within the Horn of Africa nation at a time when authorities are seeking to strengthen state institutions, confront the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab and advance long-delayed state-building reforms.
Neither the federal government nor Puntland has announced plans for fresh negotiations, leaving uncertainty over when or how the two sides might bridge their differences and restore formal cooperation.
