By Horn Africa News
Lasanod – Somalia’s newly declared regional administration in the northeast—SSC-Khaatumo, officially known as the Northeast Somalia Administration—has entered a critical phase as preparations begin for the selection of its inaugural members of parliament.
The process follows a high-level conference in Lasanod, where 417 delegates representing communities from the Sool and Sanaag regions endorsed a provisional constitution and adopted an official flag, setting the foundation for the administration’s political structure.
According to Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Ali Hoosh, the next step will be the selection of 83 MPs, drawn from the clans that have collectively agreed to form the new federal entity.
“Following the approval of the constitution, we are moving to the next stage, which is the selection of MPs. After that, we will proceed with electing the leadership of the administration,” Minister Hoosh told reporters.
The establishment of SSC-Khaatumo marks a significant political development in northern Somalia, a region long affected by intercommunal grievances, security challenges, and demands for self-governance.
The move highlights growing tension within Somalia’s federal framework, particularly in disputed regions like Sool and Sanaag, where competing claims of authority have often led to political instability and conflict.
While organizers say the new administration will operate within Somalia’s federal constitution, its formation may pose fresh political challenges to both the central government in Mogadishu and existing federal member states.
The selection of MPs is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, paving the way for the election of a regional president and the formation of government institutions.
Observers say how this process unfolds will be a key test for Somalia’s fragile federal model—and for efforts to stabilize and unify a country still grappling with complex regional dynamics.
