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Federal Parliament members from SSC-Khaatumo have intensified calls for elections to be held in Las Anod, deepening political tensions with Puntland authorities. The lawmakers argue that the region’s parliamentary seats should be contested locally rather than under Puntland’s electoral framework, reflecting SSC-Khaatumo’s growing push for autonomy.
The demand comes as SSC-Khaatumo continues to assert its political independence following its formal recognition by the Federal Government of Somalia. The administration, led by President Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali Firdhiye, has distanced itself from Puntland’s governance structures, signaling a shift in regional alliances. SSC-Khaatumo leaders insist that holding elections in Las Anod is essential for ensuring fair representation and strengthening local governance.
The dispute between SSC-Khaatumo and Puntland has escalated in recent months, with both sides vying for control over the contested region. Puntland, which has historically claimed jurisdiction over Las Anod, views SSC-Khaatumo’s push for elections as a direct challenge to its authority. The rift has fueled concerns about potential political instability, with analysts warning that unresolved tensions could lead to further fragmentation within Somalia’s federal system.
SSC-Khaatumo lawmakers argue that Puntland’s electoral process does not adequately represent their interests, citing past grievances over political marginalization. They contend that holding elections in Las Anod would allow residents to directly participate in shaping their political future, free from external influence. The move aligns with SSC-Khaatumo’s broader efforts to establish itself as a fully recognized federal member state, separate from Puntland’s administration.
Puntland officials have rejected SSC-Khaatumo’s demands, maintaining that Las Anod remains under its jurisdiction. The Puntland government has accused SSC-Khaatumo leaders of attempting to undermine regional stability and disrupt established governance structures. Despite these objections, SSC-Khaatumo lawmakers remain steadfast in their push for local elections, arguing that the region’s political future should be determined by its own residents.
The Somali federal government has yet to intervene in the dispute, but observers suggest that mediation may be necessary to prevent further escalation. The ongoing rift between SSC-Khaatumo and Puntland underscores the complexities of Somalia’s federal system, where competing regional interests often lead to political standoffs.
As SSC-Khaatumo lawmakers continue to advocate for elections in Las Anod, the focus remains on whether Puntland will concede to their demands or whether the dispute will further strain relations between the two administrations. The coming months will be critical in determining the political trajectory of SSC-Khaatumo and its evolving relationship with Puntland.