Two Somali ministers have resigned, claiming a central government conspiracy to heighten regional tensions.

Somali Deputy Minister of Education Ahmed Isman Ibrahim Daqare and Minister of State for Planning and International Cooperation Abdirashid Jire Qalinle resigned on Sunday, citing the federal government’s intention to face some regional governments.

Minister Qalinle articulated his apprehensions on what he saw as discriminatory practices by the federal government against the Jubbaland, Puntland, and SSC Khatumo administrations. Deputy Minister Daqare reiterated similar concerns, alleging that the federal government is marginalizing these areas.

I am persuaded that the administration is perpetuating increasing violence in Jubbaland and instigating civil discord to further its own goals. Daqare said, “Upon introspection of my conscience, I have resolved to resign from the position of Deputy Minister for Education, Heritage, and Higher Education.”

Two ministers from Jubbaland State resigned due to increasing political friction between Somalia’s federal government and the governments of Jubbaland and Puntland.

The issue has deepened owing of disputes over the election process, with Jubaland and Puntland continuing to boycott recent National Consultative Council sessions held in Mogadishu.