Mogadishu: Forum of Horn Vision "HAPC"Date: may 22, 2026
The Somali political scene witnessed a major escalation following the Puntland regional government’s announcement that it was withdrawing its recognition of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as the legitimate president of the country. The regional authorities asserted that the federal government had lost the legal mandate upon which it was elected.
This stance coincided with Puntland’s welcoming of the outcomes of the ” Somalia Future Council , ” amid escalating political disputes between the capital, Mogadishu, and the city of Garowe.
Key Points from the Puntland Authority’s Statement:
Calling to partners of the nation: Regional officials reported that the regional treasury agreed on the need to hold an urgent meeting that includes influential political and social forces in Somalia, in order to address what it described as the ” ambiguous future ” and the deteriorating political path of the country.
Warning to the international community: Puntland issued a strongly worded warning to foreign governments and international organizations against entering into any agreements with the capital, describing it as an ” unauthorized administration”, and considering that these understandings could harm Puntland’s long-term interests and legitimacy .
Allegations of human rights violations: The regional administration condemned the practices of the federal government, pointing to its confiscation of land, forced displacement of citizens, and arrest of political opponents.
This statement comes after rounds of negotiations between the federal government and the Somali opposition in the capital, Mogadishu, over the past few days. The two sides failed to reach satisfactory solutions regarding the elections in Somalia and other contentious national issues between them.
This sharp diplomatic shift heralds a new phase of constitutional tensions and raises serious concerns among observers about deepening the political division and fragmentation in Somalia.
