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Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Abshir Omar Jama, known widely as “Huruse,” announced his resignation on Monday, December 18, to pursue a bid for the presidency in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in northern Somalia. Huruse, who has held the foreign minister role under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for 18 months, is stepping down to focus on his campaign for the upcoming presidential election in January 2024.
In a statement, Huruse cited his decision as a personal one aimed at dedicating time to the election campaign. “I am leaving this position on my own personal decision to join, get time, and independence for the campaign for the election of the president of the Somali state of Puntland,” Huruse noted.
Controversy Over Campaign Funding
As Huruse’s candidacy gains momentum, questions have arisen about the sources of his campaign funding. Reports indicate a significant financial backing for his campaign, with a local hotel in Garowe reportedly rented entirely for his campaign activities. This level of spending has raised concerns over transparency and potential external influence.
Sources suggest that Huruse is receiving support from Villa Somalia, the Somali federal government’s executive office. With speculation that funding may be linked to the Mogadishu administration, there are concerns that Huruse’s campaign could reflect broader political interests tied to federal leadership.
Tensions with Puntland’s Incumbent Leadership
Huruse’s campaign comes amid ongoing friction between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Puntland’s current leader, Said Abdullahi Deni. This strained relationship was further aggravated by President Hassan’s vocal opposition earlier this year to a “one person, one vote” electoral system in Puntland, which he warned could lead to violence. The controversy around this stance has sparked criticism from Puntland’s clan elders and opposition leaders, who support the push for a more democratic voting process.
Clan-Based Electoral System in January Vote
In Puntland’s upcoming January election, 66 members of the regional parliament, appointed by clan elders, will select the new president. This process aligns with the preference of Somalia’s federal leadership, despite some public discontent over the continued reliance on clan-based politics. Many Puntland citizens, including women advocating for increased representation, had hoped for a more democratic approach.
Huruse has embraced the traditional system, positioning himself as the candidate favored by both clan elders and the federal government.
Transparency Concerns Ahead of January Election
As Huruse embarks on his campaign, the origins of his financial support are expected to become a focal point of scrutiny. Political analysts suggest that his close ties to Villa Somalia may lead to increased skepticism over his candidacy and concerns about the federal government’s influence over Puntland’s internal affairs.
The January 8 election is anticipated to be a critical juncture for Puntland, with potential implications for Somalia’s federal structure and ongoing debates around regional autonomy.