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Puntland’s regional administration has officially banned Somaliland’s certificate exams in Badhan district, escalating tensions over territorial control in the contested Sanaag region. The move, announced by the Governor of Sanaag, reinforces Puntland’s stance against Somaliland’s influence in the area and signals a firm commitment to maintaining its jurisdiction.
The decision comes amid reports that Somaliland authorities were preparing to administer their annual certificate exams in Badhan, scheduled to begin on June 21. Puntland officials condemned the initiative, describing it as an attempt by Somaliland to assert its presence through the education sector. The governor declared that no part of Sanaag Bari, including Badhan, would be permitted to host Somaliland-administered exams, warning that strict action would be taken against individuals or groups attempting to facilitate them.
The ban follows a recent visit by Puntland parliament members to Badhan, where they faced sharp criticism from local residents. Community members expressed frustration over the requirement for students in Badhan to take two separate exams—one from Puntland and another from Somaliland—causing confusion and potentially undermining their academic future.
The Sanaag region remains a flashpoint in the broader territorial dispute between Puntland, Somaliland, and SSC-Khaatumo. Puntland has reaffirmed its commitment to defending its jurisdiction, accusing Somaliland of using education as a political tool to expand its influence. Officials argue that Somaliland’s efforts to conduct exams in Badhan are part of a broader strategy to integrate the district into its administrative framework, despite Puntland’s longstanding claim over the area.
Somaliland, which considers Badhan part of its territory, has yet to respond to Puntland’s latest directive. However, previous attempts by Somaliland to administer exams in contested areas have led to confrontations, with Puntland authorities blocking access to examination centers and detaining officials involved in the process.
The dispute over education governance reflects deeper political tensions between the two administrations, with both sides seeking to consolidate control over key regions. Puntland’s ban on Somaliland’s certificate exams is likely to further strain relations, potentially leading to diplomatic and security challenges in the coming weeks.
As Puntland enforces its directive, students and educators in Badhan remain caught in the middle of the territorial dispute. The uncertainty surrounding their academic credentials underscores the broader challenges of governance in contested regions, where political rivalries often disrupt essential services.