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More than 30 members of Somalia’s Federal Parliament from Puntland were forced to return to Mogadishu after the plane they were traveling on to Garowe was ordered to turn back mid-journey.
The lawmakers had been heading to Garowe to attend a consultative meeting called by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni. The meeting, scheduled for Monday, was expected to focus on the country’s ongoing political tensions, including disputes over elections and constitutional matters. However, instead of reaching their destination, the lawmakers found themselves back in the capital.
Several of the MPs strongly criticized the move, accusing federal authorities of violating their constitutional rights and parliamentary immunity. They said they were simply traveling to take part in political discussions related to their constituencies and national issues. According to them, preventing their travel amounted to political interference at a very sensitive time for the country.
One lawmaker described the incident as unfortunate and harmful to democracy, arguing that elected representatives should be free to move and carry out their duties without obstruction. The MPs said blocking their journey not only disrupted their plans but also set a worrying precedent about the treatment of parliamentarians.
Dr. Mohamed Adan Koofi, Secretary-General of the opposition-aligned Somali Future Council, also condemned the decision. He called the action illegal and potentially dangerous. Koofi said stopping the plane from completing its journey could have put the safety of the lawmakers at risk. He urged authorities to respect the rights of members of parliament and allow them to represent their communities without interference.
The incident quickly escalated tensions between the federal government and Puntland authorities. In response, Puntland’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports announced the suspension of Daallo Airlines from operating in all airports under Puntland’s control. The ministry claimed that the airline had twice endangered the lives of Puntland officials and citizens, although it did not provide detailed evidence to support the accusation.
The suspension was announced only hours after the plane carrying the lawmakers was forced to return to Mogadishu. The timing led many observers to link the two events. Daallo Airlines did not immediately issue a public statement responding to Puntland’s decision or the claims made against it.
So far, the federal government has not publicly addressed accusations that it ordered the flight to turn back. The lack of an official explanation has added to speculation and criticism from opposition figures and Puntland representatives.
The incident comes at a time when relations between the federal government and Puntland are already strained. Disagreements over constitutional reforms, power-sharing, and the direction of upcoming elections have deepened divisions. Puntland has often taken positions that differ from Mogadishu’s leadership, especially on matters related to governance and federal authority.
For many observers, the forced return of the lawmakers highlights the fragile state of Somalia’s political environment. Questions are now being raised about freedom of movement for elected officials and the balance of power between federal and regional authorities.
As political tensions continue, stakeholders across the country are calling for dialogue and respect for constitutional rights. Many believe that open communication and cooperation between Mogadishu and Puntland will be essential to avoid further escalation and ensure stability during this critical period in Somalia’s political transition.