The Puntland leader endorses the Jubbaland elections and cautions against government meddling.

Puntland State President Said Abdullahi Deni declared his administration’s endorsement of Jubbaland President Ahmed Madobe to facilitate an independent election next month, underscoring the need to honor local government sovereignty.

Deni said, “We are dedicated to assisting Jubbaland in conducting elections in accordance with legal and orderly procedures.” He urged the Jubbaland election commission to go with the electoral process.

“The federal government does not possess the constitutional authority to intervene in state elections,” he said, alleging that federal authorities are seeking to suspend state constitutions to retain control.

He further said that the federal government rejects “one person, one vote” elections in favor of a strategy to prolong regional state mandates by one year to ensure its own continuation. Deni said that Somalia’s stability may be compromised if the federal administration fails to comply with legal frameworks.

Puntland proclaimed semi-independence in April 2024, expressing discontent with the existing federal constitution. The oil-rich state said it will function autonomously until constitutional amendments are ratified by a nationwide vote.