Puntland Crackdown on Dissent and Freedom of Assembly and Expression Amid Deepening Political Tensions with Mogadishu

Qardho (WDN)- Since his re-election as President of Puntland, President Said Abdullahi Deni has faced escalating public discontent amid worsening economic conditions, soaring unemployment, rampant corruption and an increasingly unbearable cost of living. At the same time, his administration has been tightening its grip on civic space through the intimidation of journalists, restrictions on independent media, and efforts to silence citizens seeking to peacefully express their opinions and criticism. These developments have fueled growing concerns about democratic backsliding and the weakening of fundamental civil liberties across Puntland.

In a move that has sparked immediate political debate, authorities in Puntland’s Karkaar region have issued an unexpected directive banning hotels, conference halls, and other public venues from hosting press conferences, political meetings, or public gatherings without prior government approval. The order, which was circulated to hotel owners and managers of event facilities across Qardho and the wider Karkaar region, warns that legal action will be taken against any individual or business found violating the directive. The announcement has raised eyebrows because of its timing.

The directive was issued less than 24 hours after an unusual political gathering took place in Qardho involving individuals described as members of Puntland’s opposition and figures believed to maintain close ties with Villa Somalia. Participants at the meeting reportedly expressed support for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, a development that surprised many observers given Puntland’s increasingly strained relationship with the Federal Government.

The speed with which regional authorities responded has fueled speculation that the government’s decision was directly linked to the meeting and was intended to prevent similar political mobilization efforts in the future.