In recent developments, the Puntland State of Somalia is once again facing a familiar pattern of betrayal and political sabotage, orchestrated by the Mogadishu-based Federal Government and its current enablers in the SSC-Khatumo administration. As history tends to repeat itself, the people of Puntland are witnessing the reemergence of a destabilization campaign designed to fracture the state, weaken its institutions, and undermine its regional authority — all under the guise of federalism and unity.
The Historic Role of SSC in Undermining Puntland Unity
Since its inception, the SSC (Sool, Sanaag, Cayn) political project has wavered between opportunism and surrender. Over the years, successive SSC movements and leaders have promised to align with Puntland, only to defect to Somaliland under pressure or in pursuit of personal gain. This pattern has eroded public trust and has repeatedly compromised Puntland’s efforts to ensure the liberation and stability of disputed region like Sool.
Despite these betrayals, Puntland State has consistently shown restraint and political maturity. It invested blood and treasure to support the people of Laascaanood in resisting Somaliland’s military occupation. This pivotal role of Puntland helped pave the way for the emergence of the latest SSC-Khatumo administration. This new formation was expected to usher in a new era of cooperation, built on mutual respect and shared interests — particularly in securing and rebuilding the liberated territories. That cooperation, however, has been sabotaged before it even began.
SSC-Khatumo’s New Alliance with the Mogadishu Regime
Instead of honoring its historical and political connection with Puntland, the SSC-Khatumo leadership has chosen a different path: aligning itself with the Federal Government in Mogadishu, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This regime has proven time and again to be hostile to Puntland’s autonomous status and political model. It seeks to centralize power under Mogadishu while undermining federal member states that resist domination — Puntland being the prime example.
SSC-Khatumo’s choice to bypass Puntland and instead deal directly with Mogadishu is not just a diplomatic slight; it is a dangerous political maneuver aimed at redrawing regional boundaries and upsetting the power balance. The federal regime has been emboldened by SSC-Khatumo’s support and is now actively promoting a narrative that seeks to carve Sanaag Region out of Puntland’s jurisdiction, effectively redrawing Somalia’s federal map through backdoor agreements and unconstitutional decisions.
Laascaanood: From Liberation to a Launchpad for Destabilization
Laascaanood, a town once symbolizing unity and resistance against external occupation, is now quickly becoming the center of a new political crisis. In recent weeks, the town has become a hub for destabilizing elements, flown in or funneled through Mogadishu. These include political opportunists, anti-Puntland activists, and intelligence operatives working under the cover of federal legitimacy. Their aim is clear: to transform Laascaanood into a rival political capital, capable of challenging Puntland’s governance in the regions of the north.
By hosting clandestine meetings, issuing unilateral declarations, and working with Mogadishu’s political machinery, SSC-Khatumo leaders are playing a dangerous game. They are not only undermining the sovereignty of Puntland but are also weakening the fragile trust that communities across Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn have placed in peaceful federal coexistence.
The Consequences of Political Short-Sightedness
SSC-Khatumo’s leaders must understand that the road they are on leads to disaster. By alienating Puntland and embracing Mogadishu’s power games, they risk plunging the region back into conflict, reversing hard-won gains, and exposing their own people to renewed instability. Puntland has shown remarkable patience, but its political and security institutions are fully capable of responding to threats against its territorial integrity.
If the current trajectory continues — with SSC-Khatumo acting as an extension of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s anti-federal regime — it will only hasten confrontation. Sanaag will not be surrendered. Puntland’s borders are not up for negotiation. Any attempt to redraw them through covert deals or misinformation campaigns will be met with firm resistance, both politically and militarily.
A Call for Accountability and Strategic Clarity
The Somali people, international partners, and regional observers must see this crisis for what it is: a federal-level conspiracy to weaken Puntland through divide-and-rule tactics. SSC-Khatumo, if it truly represents the people of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn, must return to the table of honest dialogue with Puntland. The region’s future must be shaped by unity, not division; by cooperation, not confrontation.
Failure to heed this warning will only lead to renewed instability — and this time, Puntland will act not just in defense, but in the preservation of its legacy, borders, and the will of its people.
Conclusion: Puntland Will Stand Firm
The people and government of Puntland are alert. They are ready. They will not allow political adventurism, opportunism, or federal collusion to destroy decades of stability and unity. SSC-Khatumo’s reckless actions and Mogadishu’s sabotage campaigns will not succeed. Puntland remains the anchor of federalism, security, and institutional governance in Somalia — and no amount of scheming will change that reality.
Let this be a final call for reason. Let it also be a warning.Published by WDM Opinion Desk – Defending Puntland’s Integrity and the Truth.
Warsame Policy & Media Network (WAPMEN) 