Reported by Abdilatif Ahmed
“The Puntland Diaspora Community in the United Kingdom (UK) expresses its deep concern regarding the escalating security situation and strongly condemns what it views as actions by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Federal Government of Somalia that are increasing military tensions and instability affecting Puntland.
According to information received by the Community, additional troops, heavy weapons, and military equipment have reportedly been deployed toward Galkacyo. The Community considers these developments a serious escalation that threatens peace, security, social stability, and national unity, while increasing the risk of armed confrontation with potentially severe political, humanitarian, and security consequences.
The Community believes that military mobilisation represents a departure from dialogue, constitutional governance, and peaceful dispute resolution. At a time when Somalia requires unity, reconciliation, and cooperation to address national challenges, the use of military force to resolve political disagreements risks deepening divisions, weakening institutions, and undermining public trust.
The Puntland Diaspora Community strongly condemns what it views as the use of state military resources and authority to apply political pressure on Puntland. Political and constitutional disputes must be resolved through dialogue, negotiation, mutual respect, and adherence to federal principles, democracy, constitutional order, and the rule of law—not through confrontation or coercion.
The Community warns that continued military escalation around Galkacyo could endanger civilian lives, increase humanitarian risks, cause displacement, disrupt economic activity, and further weaken political stability in Puntland and Somalia as a whole.
The Puntland Diaspora Community firmly maintains that political disagreements must never be resolved through force or military threats. All disputes must be addressed through genuine dialogue, peaceful engagement, and constitutional processes.
Therefore, the Puntland Diaspora Community in the United Kingdom calls for:
The immediate cessation of military activities that could further escalate tensions in Galkacyo and Puntland.
A renewed commitment by all political leaders to peaceful dialogue, constitutional processes, and sustainable solutions.
Full respect for the constitutional rights, security, and autonomy of Federal Member States.
Protection of civilians, public infrastructure, and humanitarian access in accordance with international principles.
Greater involvement by regional and international partners in supporting mediation and de-escalation efforts.
The Community believes that continued escalation risks weakening Somalia’s institutions, undermining national unity, and diverting resources from essential priorities, including security, economic recovery, and democratic development. Lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through inclusive governance, accountability, reconciliation, and genuine political dialogue.
The Puntland Diaspora Community therefore calls upon President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Federal Government of Somalia to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that may further increase tensions with Puntland. Priority must be given to constructive dialogue, protection of civilians, preservation of peace, and strengthening Somalia’s federal institutions.
The Puntland Diaspora Community in the United Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to a peaceful, united, democratic, and federal Somalia based on justice, constitutional governance, mutual respect, and the rule of law. The Somali people deserve responsible leadership that prioritises national interests, resolves disputes through dialogue, and protects the future and wellbeing of all citizens.”