Garowe, PUNTLAND – In a leaked letter to international partners, Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni issued a compelling call to the international community to address the increasing politicization of donor assistance and budgetary support by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) in Mogadishu. In the strongly worded letter dated June 9, 2024, addressed to global and regional powers, international organizations, and multilateral financial institutions, President Deni highlighted the pressing need for equitable distribution of humanitarian, development, and budgetary support to the Puntland State of Somalia.
Mogadishu’s Manipulation of Aid
President Deni expressed grave concerns over Mogadishu’s manipulation of donor funds for political purposes, stating, “We have observed a troubling trend of Mogadishu using donor aid for politically motivated agendas since my re-election.” This politicization, which has been ongoing for the last 18 months, has adversely affected Puntland’s earmarked projects, programs, and budgetary support, undermining the core purpose of development assistance in improving the lives of citizens and fostering sustainable progress.
The President’s concerns echo the growing frustration among Federal Member States (FMS) over the FGS’s lack of transparency and accountability in the management of international aid. This sentiment is further exacerbated by the FGS’s recent controversial constitutional changes and tensions with regional states, which have raised questions about its commitment to inclusive governance and respect for the rights of FMS.
The letter underscores the Puntland government’s commitment to good governance, fiscal responsibility, and the effective use of development resources. Despite the administration’s efforts to engage constructively with multilateral development banks, donors, and Mogadishu in resolving outstanding technical issues, President Deni lamented the lack of success and highlighted Mogadishu’s disinformation campaign against Puntland.
Puntland’s steadfast commitment to democratic principles and effective governance has been demonstrated by its recent successful transition to a democratic system, marked by the holding of direct elections. This progress stands in stark contrast to the growing concerns over the FGS’s centralizing tendencies and its disregard for the constitutional rights of FMS.
Inclusive Governance
President Deni’s appeal emphasizes the importance of an inclusive process involving foreign aid, trade, treaties, natural resources, and other significant issues that affect the FMS, as stipulated in the federal constitution of 2012. The FGS’s actions, however, have repeatedly disregarded this constitutional mandate, overlooking the fragile state of the nation and potentially jeopardizing Somalia’s stability and unity.
The politicization of aid by the FGS is particularly concerning given the dire humanitarian situation in Somalia, where millions of people are in need of assistance due to ongoing conflicts, climate shocks, and economic challenges. The manipulation of donor funds for political purposes not only undermines the effectiveness of aid delivery but also erodes trust between the FGS, FMS, and international partners.
President Deni’s call for the establishment of an alternative mechanism that would enable multilateral development banks to directly aid and support Puntland reflects the need for a more decentralized approach to aid delivery, one that recognizes the unique challenges and needs of each FMS and empowers local authorities to take ownership of their development priorities.
Building a Stable Future
As Somalia continues to navigate the complex challenges of state-building and post-conflict reconstruction, the international community must remain committed to supporting the country’s efforts to achieve stability, democracy, and prosperity. This requires a nuanced approach that balances the need for a strong central government with the imperative of empowering and supporting regional authorities to deliver services and drive development in their respective areas.
President Deni’s urgent appeal serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of equitable aid distribution and inclusive governance in Somalia. It is a call to action for the international community to use its influence to safeguard democracy, uphold the rule of law, and promote peace throughout the country.
The FGS’s flawed approach to fighting corruption, as evidenced by the recent acquittals of high-ranking officials accused of graft, further underscores the need for a more comprehensive and balanced approach to governance. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, the FGS can build trust with the FMS and the international community, creating a more conducive environment for effective aid delivery and sustainable development.
