SSC-Khaatumo Upholds Federal Relations, Dismisses Need for Northeastern State Dialogue

Mogadishu (AX) — In recent developments, the SSC-Khaatumo administration has firmly rebuffed criticisms from Northeastern State, emphasizing that it is not obliged to inform or consult Northeastern State regarding its relationship with Somalia’s Federal Government. This bold assertion highlights a growing complexity in the political landscape of Somalia.

On Saturday, Najib Barkhadle Warsame, the Information Minister for SSC-Khaatumo, responded directly to remarks made by Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni, who had expressed concerns about SSC-Khaatumo’s alignment with the federal government. Minister Warsame’s response was as pointed as it was passionate: “Northeastern State did not consult us when forming ties with separatist administrations working to divide Somalia, which itself is unconstitutional. So how can it expect us to consult them about our relationship with the legitimate Federal Government of Somalia?”

In these challenging times, one wonders: how do we navigate our connections and obligations in governance? Warsame emphasized that both SSC-Khaatumo and Northeastern State possess equal rights to engage with the federal government. He categorically denied any allegations of unlawful actions on SSC-Khaatumo’s part, a statement suggesting a determination to defend their sovereignty.

Importantly, Minister Warsame indicated that despite tensions, SSC-Khaatumo has made numerous attempts to open lines of communication with the Northeastern State administration, yet those attempts have seemingly gone unanswered, particularly from President Deni. This raises the question: what happens when dialogue ceases? “Our political and public interest lies in working with the Federal Government,” said Warsame, revealing the administration’s yearning for greater political representation. “We want SSC-Khaatumo parliamentary seats to be elected from within our territories, not reassigned elsewhere.” His words resonate with a deeper pursuit for autonomy and representation that echoes the sentiments of many regional entities grappling with their identities within a broader national framework.

As the situation unfolds, the arrival of SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdulqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali Firdhiye in Mogadishu on Saturday adds another layer to this intricate narrative. He and his delegation were welcomed at the Aden Adde International Airport by senior federal officials and members of the public. This marked a historic moment, as SSC-Khaatumo will participate in the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting for the first time since declaring itself a federal member state last year.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s recognition of SSC-Khaatumo as a federal member state, following his notable visit to Las Anod last month, illustrates a positive shift in relations, amidst a backdrop of prolonged conflict with North Western State of Somalia forces. The administration has made significant strides in consolidating control over the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions. But amidst these successes, one can’t help but reflect on the untouched emotions and complexities that accompany such progress.

Indeed, tensions between SSC-Khaatumo and Northeastern State have been simmering, fed by overlapping territorial claims and divergent political loyalties. Northeastern State’s attempt to assert administrative influence over disputed territories has further complicated the relationship. The question remains: can the two administrations find common ground, or are they destined to drift further apart in their quest for sovereignty?

Through this dialogue—or lack thereof—one observes a microcosm of a larger struggle that many nations face when it comes to balancing regional ambitions with national unity. Such circumstances often leave behind scars, yet they also present opportunities for growth, understanding, and ultimately, reconciliation.

As Somalia continues down this contentious path, the international community watches closely; stakeholders are hopeful for a future where constructive dialogue could lead to harmony and collaboration, rather than conflict and division. The evolving dynamics within the SSC-Khaatumo and Northeastern State relationshipwill undoubtedly shape the political landscape for years to come.

In the spirit of engagement and unity, one hopes for an era marked not just by political maneuvering, but by open hearts and minds ready to embrace dialogue. After all, what is governance if not a delicate dance of understanding and compromise?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international – Monitoring