Garowe, PUNTLAND – In a historic and decisive move, the state of Puntland has announced its withdrawal of recognition of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) in response to President Hassan Sheikh’s unconstitutional imposition of a new constitution. This drastic step comes as a result of the President’s blatant disregard for the consensus-based constitutional process that has served as the foundation for Somalia’s stability and progress since the end of the civil war.
Puntland’s Demands for a Return to Constitutional Order
Puntland’s leadership has made it clear that their recognition of the FGS will only be restored when there is a genuine return to the constitutional process, one that involves and respects the input of Puntland and other federal member states. This principled stance underscores the importance of adherence to the rule of law and the need for inclusive, transparent decision-making in matters of national significance.
By insisting on a return to the 2012 constitution, which was adopted through a broad-based consensus among Somali stakeholders, Puntland is defending the hard-fought gains of the past decade and the vision of a federal, democratic Somalia that respects the rights and aspirations of all its citizens.
In a further demonstration of its resolve, Puntland has invoked the independence clause enshrined in its own constitution. This clause, which grants Puntland the right to assert its autonomy in the face of egregious violations of the federal constitution, sends a powerful message to Mogadishu that the state will not stand idly by as the foundations of Somalia’s post-civil war order are undermined.
The invocation of this clause is not a decision taken lightly, but rather a measure of last resort in the face of President Hassan Sheikh’s intransigence and disregard for the rule of law. It serves as a reminder that Somalia’s federal member states are not mere subordinates to the central government, but rather equal partners in the nation-building process, with the right and responsibility to defend the constitution and the interests of their people.
Rejection of Hassan Sheikh’s Legitimacy
Perhaps the most striking aspect of Puntland’s declaration is the state’s unequivocal rejection of Hassan Sheikh’s legitimacy as President of Somalia. By stating that he is not recognized as President due to his actions against the constitution, Puntland is effectively declaring that Hassan Sheikh has forfeited the moral and legal authority to lead the nation, which was granted to him by the very constitutional order he has now subverted.
This bold stance sends a powerful message that Puntland, and by extension other federal member states and Somali stakeholders, will not accept an unconstitutional and illegitimate government in Mogadishu. It is a call for accountability and a reminder that the authority to govern derives from the will of the people and the respect for the constitutional framework that binds the nation together.
Despite the gravity of the situation and the firmness of its stance, Puntland has demonstrated its commitment to national unity and reconciliation by leaving open a window for dialogue and a return to the constitutional order. This gesture underscores the state’s recognition that the only path forward for Somalia is through inclusive, consensus-based decision-making and respect for the rule of law.
By expressing its willingness to work with those who respect and recognize the 2012 constitution, Puntland is extending an olive branch to other federal member states, opposition parties, and civil society organizations that share its commitment to a democratic, federal Somalia. It is an invitation to come together in defense of the nation’s hard-fought gains and to chart a course towards a more stable, prosperous future.
Conclusion
Puntland’s historic decision to withdraw its recognition of the Federal Government of Somalia in response to President Hassan Sheikh’s unconstitutional actions is a watershed moment in the nation’s post-civil war history. It is a powerful demonstration of the state’s commitment to the rule of law, federalism, and the vision of a democratic Somalia that respects the rights and aspirations of all its citizens.
As Somalia navigates this critical juncture, it is essential that all stakeholders, both within the country and in the international community, heed Puntland’s call for a return to the constitutional order and a rejection of illegitimate, unconstitutional governance. Only by standing united in defense of the principles enshrined in the 2012 constitution can Somalis hope to overcome the challenges they face and build a brighter, more stable future for their nation.
