BOSASO, Somalia – In the rugged terrain of the Calmiskat mountains, Northeastern State forces achieved a noteworthy milestone, successfully curbing the influence of ISIS in the region. With this newfound momentum, the Northeastern State administration is setting its sights on a broader challenge: aiding southern Somalia in its ongoing struggle against the pervasive threat of al-Shabaab.

Northeastern State’s independence in handling ISIS, without federal support, illustrates a spirited determination to protect its land. This recent triumph sends a powerful message of resilience, especially considering the challenging foothold ISIS had gained in the Bari region.

During a weekend assembly, Northeastern State’s leader, Said Abdullahi Deni, expressed the state’s willingness to extend its support to the southern regions. But there’s a catch. The completion of Operation Hilaac (Lightning) is imperative before resources can be redirected. Isn’t it fascinating how strategic timing and resource allocation can shape the course of such significant battles?

At a graduation ceremony for the new Northeastern State Marine Police Force (PMPF) recruits, Deni passionately reiterated Northeastern State’s unwavering commitment to Somali unity. His words—”Northeastern State is part of Somalia”—echoed through the crowd, emphasizing an intrinsic duty to national defense. “We are obliged to contribute to the defense and stabilization of the nation,” he asserted, perhaps inspiring thoughts about collective responsibility and unity in the face of adversity.

So why do federal troops wrestle with controlling Al-Shabaab in central and southern locales? Despite involvement from the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), challenges persist. Could it be due to coordination issues or perhaps a lack of resources?

Deni’s roadmap to joining in the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting hinges on adherence to previous political understandings. “Mogadishu must honor previous agreements,” he stipulated, pointing to the significance of trust and reliability in political dealings.

Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, faces internal friction. States like Northeastern State and Jubaland have voiced concerns over swift constitutional amendments lacking adequate discourse. Such political dynamics reveal the complexity of governance. Isn’t it intriguing to consider how these internal disagreements play out on the grander stage of national security?

“Politics is the art of the possible.” — Otto von Bismarck

Northeastern State’s status as the most stable and progressive federal state gives it a unique vantage point. Could this stability potentially serve as a blueprint for other regions? It’s worth pondering how Northeastern State’s initiatives might ignite a broader movement towards peace and order.