Northeastern State Dismisses Federal Government’s Assertion of Providing 200 Tons of Food Assistance

Mogadishu (AX) — The Northeastern State authorities have firmly dismissed allegations from Somalia’s National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) claiming that they received a hefty 200-ton shipment of food aid in Bosaso, a bustling port in the semi-autonomous region. In a straightforward comeback, Ubah Abdirashid Hirsi, who holds the Minister of Relief and Disaster Management post in Northeastern State, made it crystal clear that the federal government hasn’t sent any food aid to them. She didn’t mince her words, stating, “Not a single morsel of aid from the Federal Government of Somalia has reached us.” This highlights Northeastern State’s proud stance of independently managing international aid, sidestepping any federal entanglement.

Ubah threw down the gauntlet, challenging SODMA to produce solid proof of its claims. “We stand for transparent and accountable aid delivery. Every ounce of assistance gets to those in dire need under tight management,” she guaranteed, painting Northeastern State as a guardian of responsible aid distribution.

SODMA had announced on Wednesday that it had transported 200 tons of food aid to Bosaso, aiming to bolster the lives of vulnerable groups. This move was part of their larger campaign to tackle the nation’s urgent humanitarian challenges, caused by pressing droughts and the scramble for safety by displaced communities.

This spat throws into sharp relief the simmering tensions between Northeastern State and the federal government concerning aid logistics. Northeastern State has been vocal in criticizing what it sees as unnecessary meddling and bumbling from the center, making unambiguous calls for the right to dictate how resources meant for its people should be managed. This ongoing tug-of-war underscores a broader push for autonomy that Northeastern State hopes will ensure resources are allocated directly and efficiently to its residents without the back-and-forth red tape from the federal side. It’s not just about food; it is a cry for the freedom to choose and manage their destiny. Now, whether SODMA will back down or bolster their claim is the looming question.

“Whosoever shows up with empty claims should come bearing proof,” quipped Ubah, capturing a vibe shared by many Puntlanders who want to make sure that the needy get what’s coming to them without bureaucratic hassle.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring