Puntland Accuses Hassan Sheikh of Fueling Tensions in Galkayo, Places Security Forces on Alert

Garowe (WDN) — Puntland has issued a strongly worded warning accusing Somalia’s Federal Government and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of pursuing political and security moves that could destabilize Puntland, particularly the strategically sensitive city of Galkayo.

In a statement released Thursday evening, Puntland said it was closely monitoring what it described as preparations for a possible visit by President Hassan Sheikh to southern Galkayo, which is administered by Galmudug.

Puntland warned that the reported visit should not be viewed as a routine presidential engagement, arguing that it could carry political implications capable of inflaming tensions in a city that has long stood as both a symbol of division and an important example of coexistence between Puntland and Galmudug communities.

The administration went further, alleging that the Federal Government was attempting to manipulate political dynamics in Galkayo and create divisions among communities that have spent years working to preserve an uneasy but increasingly important peace.