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The Somali federal government has officially recognized and pledged support for the newly formed Northeastern Somali Regional State. This follows a major conference in Las Anod that transitioned the former SSC-Khatumo interim administration into a permanent federal member state.
At a ceremony held in Las Anod on Friday, Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation, Ali Yusuf Ali Hoosh, announced that the federal government is fully committed to helping the new regional administration succeed. He said Mogadishu would provide an aid package to support the delivery of essential services and strengthen the administration’s ability to govern effectively.
“This collaboration is an important step to ensure all regional governments have the tools they need to function properly and contribute to Somalia’s peace and stability,” said Minister Hoosh.
He also congratulated the new leadership and expressed hope that the state would promote peace, development, and unity in Somalia’s northeastern regions.
The support from the federal government came shortly after the conclusion of a state formation conference in Las Anod. This important event brought together traditional elders, political figures, and civil society members from the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn regions. Together, they reached a consensus to create the new Northeastern Somali Regional State, with Las Anod as its capital.
The conference officially ended the SSC-Khatumo interim administration and ratified a new constitution. This step formally integrates the region into Somalia’s federal system. According to the final declaration, the process was guided by community-led dialogue, which helped resolve longstanding disputes that had previously prevented political progress.
The formation of the new regional state is seen as a turning point for both the region and the country as a whole. It strengthens federalism in Somalia and reflects a grassroots effort to promote local governance and peace.
However, the move may also bring new challenges. The region, particularly the Sool and Sanaag areas, has long been claimed by Somaliland, which considers it part of its territory. The establishment of a new federal member state in this contested region could increase tensions between the federal government and Somaliland authorities.
Still, the Somali federal government views the creation of the Northeastern Somali Regional State as a major achievement in the country’s long-running state-building process. The transition from interim to permanent status highlights how local dialogue and federal support can come together to promote political progress.
For the people of the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn regions, the new administration represents a chance to finally have a stable and recognized government that can address local needs, improve services, and provide a stronger voice within the federal system.
In summary, the Somali government’s recognition and backing of the new Northeastern State signals a new chapter in the country’s efforts to build a functioning, inclusive federal system. The process was driven by local consensus and supported by federal leaders, offering a hopeful example of how Somalia can continue to move toward greater unity and development despite its many challenges.