By HAN News Desk
GAROWE — Puntland’s President Said Abdullahi Deni is facing growing political pressure as opposition parties and a number of traditional elders intensify their criticism of his administration, calling for a review of the region’s political system and governance approach.
The Sincad opposition party has thrown its full support behind a recent statement issued by several traditional elders who called for the formation of a so-called “New Puntland”—a political reset aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and renewed democratic governance.
In a statement released this week, the Sincad party accused President Deni’s government of losing public trust and said a “broad political reform” was necessary to preserve Puntland’s unity and stability.
“We support the elders’ call. It is crucial to review the direction Puntland is heading to prevent political fragmentation,” the party said.
However, the Horseed Party, one of Puntland’s oldest and most influential political groups, took a more cautious stance. In a separate statement, Horseed urged all political actors to safeguard Puntland’s territorial unity and uphold the rule of law.
“Political disagreements must not endanger Puntland’s very existence. The law and territorial integrity must be respected,” Horseed stated.
The growing political rift has caused a new wave of uncertainty in Garowe, with analysts warning it could affect the functioning of key state institutions.
President Deni now faces pressure from three major fronts:
1. Traditional leaders, who are demanding a wide-ranging political review;
2. Opposition parties, who accuse him of authoritarian leadership and undermining democratic norms;
3. His own administration, which is increasingly focused on defending government policy and preserving authority.
Political observers say that without an inclusive national dialogue, the ongoing tensions could lead to deepening divisions and delays in Puntland’s development agenda.
Emerging reports also indicate that traditional elders in Bari region are planning to convene a large consultative conference, inviting politicians and community representatives to discuss Puntland’s political future and the possibility of building a unified political system.
The latest developments come as President Deni struggles to rebuild public confidence amid mounting criticism over governance, security, and transparency.
Many see this political standoff as a critical test that could determine the future direction of Puntland’s semi-autonomous government in the months ahead.
