Northeastern State accuses U.N. official of obstructing development projects
Mogadishu (AX) – Somalia’s Northeastern State has lodged a formal complaint with the federal government, accusing a senior United Nations official of interfering with development work and violating key humanitarian principles.
Tuesday April 21, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) – Somalia’s Northeastern State has lodged a formal complaint with the federal government, accusing a senior United Nations official of interfering with development work and violating key humanitarian principles.
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In a letter dated Tuesday and sent to senior federal ministers, the regional Ministry of Planning and Development said the conduct of George Conway, the U.N. Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, runs counter to established humanitarian standards.
The complaint points to alleged violations of principles set out in U.N. General Assembly Resolution 46/182, including humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. Regional authorities said Conway’s actions have undermined those standards and disrupted essential development projects in the area.
“There is credible concern that development initiatives within the Northeastern State have been deliberately obstructed. Such actions not only hinder critical progress but also deprive vulnerable communities of essential services and opportunities for sustainable development,” the letter reads.
The letter also expressed concern about the continued use of what it described as outdated UN policy frameworks that classify the Northeastern State as a disputed territory.
“This position is inconsistent with the current federal structure of Somalia, under which the Northeastern State has been duly established and recognized by the Federal Government. The persistence of this mischaracterization raises serious concerns regarding institutional bias and misalignment with national policy,” it added.
The regional administration warned that such language could deepen divisions and weaken national unity, arguing that humanitarian and development assistance should not be used as a means of political pressure or regional favoritism.
The Northeastern State urged the federal government to immediately examine Conway’s conduct, open discussions with U.N. agencies to ensure compliance with international humanitarian principles, and secure fair access to development assistance in all regions.
The federal government and the United Nations have not yet publicly responded to the claims.