Deni Vows Puntland Will Not Bow to Federal Government Pressure

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni declared on Wednesday that his administration will never compromise on federalism, warning that armed forces must not be used to settle political scores in Mogadishu.

Speaking during celebrations marking Somalia’s 66th independence anniversary, President Deni used the platform to address escalating tensions between Puntland and the federal government, singling out President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for pointed criticism.

“Mogadishu is the capital of Somalia. We will never allow dictatorship to return to this country,” Deni said, addressing residents of the capital directly. He pledged solidarity with Mogadishu residents in building a democratic Somalia governed by the constitution and federal principles.

The Puntland leader also confirmed that regional forces remain on high alert, citing ongoing operations against Islamic State militants in the Almiskaad mountains as evidence of the administration’s commitment to security. He said soldiers and officers who died in that campaign had sacrificed their lives defending Puntland’s freedom and territory.