Northeastern State Challenges Ex-Speaker’s Immunity Amid Sanaag Secession Efforts

Garowe (AX) — In a significant development that may reshape Northeastern State’s political landscape, the regional parliament is gearing up to vote on a highly controversial motion aimed at revoking the parliamentary immunity of the former Speaker, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril. Accused of spearheading efforts to detach the Sanaag region from Northeastern State and align with the SSC-Khaatumo administration, this action raises layers of complexity and stakes in a region already fraught with political tensions.

Those in favor of the motion argue that revoking Jibril’s immunity would be a crucial step toward addressing serious accusations that include sedition and actions that undermine Northeastern State’s territorial integrity. It’s a bold move, heavily rooted in the belief that accountability is essential for the region’s stability. But it begs a question: What are the implications of such a power shift, not just for individual politicians, but for communities who have long felt marginalized?

The urgency of this motion is underscored by recent events. On a Saturday that seemed ordinary at first glance, Jibril made headlines by appearing in the village of Ceelbuh, donned in military fatigues, and found himself at the center of an unfolding drama. He stood alongside local politicians organizing a conference intended to rally clan elders from the Warsangali community. This gathering was significant; it represented a formal bid to secure support for joining SSC-Khaatumo—a maneuver that, if successful, would effectively declare the region’s withdrawal from Northeastern State’s authority. Imagine the tension in that moment: the blend of hope and fear, tradition clashing with ambitions for a new political identity.

In swift response, Northeastern State’s security forces deployed military personnel to dissolve the gathering and block access routes. Yet, despite this intervention, Jibril and his allies maintained their stance, claiming a constitutional right to determine their political future. “The people of Sanaag have a right to decide who represents them. Northeastern State has sidelined them for years,” one official shared, his voice tinged with both defiance and disillusionment, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the situation. This sentiment resonates deeply in a region where the struggle for political identity is palpable.

Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril’s political history is as layered as the situation itself. Serving as the Speaker of the Northeastern State Parliament from 2019 to 2023, he was instrumental in passing vital legislation, including anti-piracy laws and revenue-sharing agreements. Yet, in a twist that seems to echo the age-old adage about political alliances being more fleeting than we imagine, his relationship with President Said Abdullahi Deni deteriorated over disagreements related to election delays and leadership issues. The irony of such a fall from grace is not lost on anyone watching from the sidelines.

Complicating matters further, Northeastern State accuses the federal government in Mogadishu of covertly supporting the separatist initiative. Allegations abound that such backing from Villa Somalia has emboldened local politicians to shift their allegiances. In contrast, federal officials hastily deny these charges, creating an intricate web of accusations and denials that fuels further distrust.

The Sanaag region itself is a land rich in resources and strategic significance, offering Northeastern State access to the Red Sea alongside untapped mineral deposits. Losing control over this area would not only weaken Northeastern State’s influence; it risks compromising its tax base and maritime reach. One can only ponder the broader consequences of such a loss—how would this reshape the dynamics of governance and resource management in an already complex political arena?

At its core, this conflict exposes deeply rooted grievances, particularly from the Warsangali sub-clan of the Harti-Darod. Their frustrations reflect a narrative of historical favoritism, suggesting that successive Northeastern State administrations have disproportionately benefited the Majeerteen clan in government appointments and development funding. This long-standing sentiment of neglect plays a vital role in the current struggle—how can genuine representation be ensured in a system many perceive as exclusionary?

As lawmakers prepare to introduce the motion to revoke Jibril’s immunity later this week, the implications are immense. Should the motion pass, it would empower Northeastern State’s attorney general to bring forth charges, including sedition—an offense carrying a potential 20-year sentence under regional law. In anticipation of unrest, Northeastern State authorities are proactively deploying additional security forces across Ceelbuh and surrounding towns to maintain order and preempt further movements by separatist factions. Will these measures quell the rising tides of dissent, or do they risk igniting even greater turmoil?

The SSC-Khaatumo administration, self-declared in 2023 after the exit of North Western State of Somalia forces from Las Anod, has positioned itself as an alternative political entity for Harti-majority regions seeking autonomy from both Northeastern State and North Western State of Somalia. It’s a pivotal movement rife with questions about self-determination, loyalty, and the quest for legitimate representation in a complex political landscape.

As the dynamics continue to evolve, observers and stakeholders alike must grapple with the unfolding narrative. How will this vote reshape not just the lives of those in power, but also the everyday citizens of Northeastern State? The stakes have never been higher.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring