The Rift Among North East Leaders is Intensifying

A political dispute between the President of the Puntland Administration of Northeastern Somalia, Abdulqadir Ahmed Aw-Cali (Firdhiye) , and the Vice President of that administration, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibriil (Abwaan) , has been intensifying in recent days, as the conflict between the two officials has affected their political relationship and the work of the administration's Parliament.

Reports indicate that the dispute is rooted in differing views on the management of institutions, constitutional powers, and the level of consultation between the President and his Vice President.

The tension was significantly felt after President Firdhiye returned to the city of Laascaanood, following more than 50 days of travel in the city of Mogadishu.

Firdhiye was welcomed in Laascaanood by members of the administration, military officials, elders, and community members, but the Vice President Abwaan was absent from the event.

Local media linked his absence to the conflict between the two officials, with one of the issues reported to have fueled the dispute being the appointment of the commander of the 26th Division of the Somali National Army , as internal reports indicate that the Vice President was not consulted on the appointment of the commander from the Sanaag region.

This dispute has affected the Parliament of Northeastern Somalia, with reports suggesting that the members have divided into supporters of both sides.

Some reports indicate that lawmakers supporting President Firdhiye are pursuing a plan related to the immunity of Vice President Abwaan, while some sessions of Parliament have been delayed amid political divisions.

On the other hand, Vice President Cabdirashiid Abwaan hours ago posted a statement on social media addressing the ongoing conflict.

Although he did not elaborate on the points of contention with the President, his statement suggested that he is responding to accusations made by factions supporting Firdhiye, asserting that he still stands by his position regarding the existence and unity of the Northeastern Administration.

This conflict comes at a time when Northeastern is a newly established administration, formed after the political and security changes that occurred in Laascaanood and the surrounding areas.