“We want to unequivocally tell international firms: save your time when it comes to the Holhol oil field or any other resources in this area. No one holds the legitimate authority to seal such deals unless they follow the proper legal channels and gain mutual approval,” Karash emphasized.
Recently, the Federal Government of Somalia inked an oil exploration deal with Turkey. Turkey plans to send a ship to the Somali coastline in October to start evaluating offshore oil reserves.
Though Holhol is tucked away inland and not a part of the coastal exploration, it stands as one of the suspected oil-laden areas the government eyes for exploration. Yet, questions linger on whether the Somali government looped in the SSC Khaatumo administration, which governs the region, before deciding.
Karaash’s caution comes on the heels of Northeastern State’s April declaration to act autonomously from Somalia’s federal institutions until a new constitutional framework is crafted mutually by all Somali parties, including Northeastern State. The semiautonomous region, home to 4.9 million souls, pulled back its recognition of the federal government following constitutional tweaks made, in its view, without adequate dialogue. Notable changes include the presidency’s newfound power to appoint a prime minister without parliamentary nod and the shift to direct presidential polls.
Northeastern State officials have accused the federal government of eating away at Somalia’s unity and cautioned that any deals struck without regional inclusion might disrupt the precarious state-building endeavor.
