GAROWE – The Puntland government has announced that it will not allow troops associated with the Federal Government of Somalia to be stationed in or move through Puntland territory, reaffirming its authority over security issues within its jurisdiction.
The decision followed a cabinet meeting chaired by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and attended by Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor. In a statement released after the meeting, Puntland said it is not part of any arrangements involving Somali federal forces that may have been discussed under the framework of the Federal Government of Somalia. The administration added that troops operating under federal command would not be permitted to remain in or transit through Puntland without its approval.
The cabinet instructed Puntland’s security institutions and regional authorities to block any unauthorized movement of military personnel or equipment into areas controlled by Puntland. Officials said the move is aimed at protecting security, stability, and administrative authority within Puntland and the wider region.
Tensions have further escalated following reports that federal funds were distributed directly to specific troops deployed within Puntland. These units were historically part of the Puntland military but were subsequently integrated into the Somali National Army (SNA). Puntland’s Presidential Security Advisor disclosed that there are currently 1,376 soldiers stationed within the state whose salaries are financed directly by the federal government. State officials allege that the purpose of these payments is to bypass Puntland’s command structure, creating a force that undermines the state’s security autonomy[reference:0].
Puntland’s Position on Federal Troop Movements
The government also emphasized the importance of cooperation between residents, public institutions, and security agencies in maintaining peace and stability across Puntland. The announcement comes amid rising political and security tensions involving the Federal Government and Somaliland, especially over sovereignty claims, possible military deployments to Somaliland, and the broader political future of disputed areas in Sool.
Puntland’s statement reflects its continued insistence on controlling all security and military activity in areas under its administration. By rejecting troop movements it associates with an attack on Somaliland or with unauthorized federal deployments, Puntland is signaling that any military activity in its territory requires its approval.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has previously stated that no area of the country is beyond the national army’s capabilities, warning of potential military action against regional states[reference:1]. This was echoed by Defense Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, who warned that the federal government could use military force against federal member states opposing national plans[reference:2].
Deepening Rift Between Garowe and Mogadishu
The announcement underscores ongoing tensions between Puntland and the Federal Government over authority, security coordination, and federal-state relations. President Deni has previously instructed regional forces to maintain heightened readiness and prepare for potential military action by the federal government, warning against a repeat of the scenario that led to the ousting of South West State leader Abdiasis Laftagareen[reference:3]. Deni has accused President Mohamud of attempting to consolidate power and dismantle the federal system[reference:4].
Puntland Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor has previously accused Villa Somalia of utilizing substantial resources to destabilize the region, stating that the priority for the current year will move toward “defense” against political interference[reference:5].
Significance of the Announcement
The reference to Somaliland is especially significant because of the long-running dispute over regions such as Las Anod and nearby areas, where competing territorial claims and security concerns have repeatedly heightened tensions. If reports of possible troop movements continue to circulate, Puntland’s position suggests it is prepared to act independently to prevent any deployment it views as contrary to its interests or security arrangements.
Overall, the statement highlights Puntland’s determination to retain control over security affairs in its territory while reflecting the broader political and territorial disputes shaping relations among Puntland, Somaliland, and the Federal Government.
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