Garowe (PP News Desk) — Senator Abdirahman Mohamed Mohamud ‘Farole,’ former President of Puntland State of Somalia , has expressed serious concerns over the deployment of Somali National Army (SNA) units to the Lower Jubba region of Jubaland State due to escalating political tensions between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Jubaland State. He warned that such actions may plunge Somalia back into the turmoil of civil war, marked by political violence and mass civilian displacement.
Farole criticised President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision to dispatch the SNA units to Raaskaambini, suggesting it reflects an attempt to usurp power in Jubaland by force. He highlighted the dangerous decision of using the national army for political purposes, which not only undermines Somalia’s peace and stability but also diverts critical resources from combating terrorist threats.
“It is my position that the President of the Federal Republic, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has a constitutional and moral duty to uphold the law, promote dialogue and reconciliation, and foster national unity and consensus. However, the President’s decision to deploy SNA units to Jubaland, at this time of heightened tension, signals his commitment to usurp power in Jubaland State in his fav — through violent means, if necessary” wrote Senator Farole.
The Senator outlined key challenges exacerbating the crisis, including constitutional disputes, the lack of an independent Federal Constitutional Court and the politicisation of Somalia’s judicial system. He also raised concerns about the legitimacy of the National Consultative Council (NCC) and procedural irregularities in the Federal Parliament, which “erode trust” in Somalia’s political institutions.
Farole called on President Mohamud to uphold his constitutional responsibility to promote dialogue, reconciliation and national unity. He urged the cessation of military actions and encouraged international partners, including UNSOM and ATMIS, to defuse tensions and prioritise peaceful political resolutions.
The Senator’s warning serves as a stark reminder of Somalia’s fragile state, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive dialogue to prevent the country from descending into conflict.
© Puntland Post, 2024
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