Somalia: The Federal Government Must Respect the Constitution, Says Northeastern State

BOSASO, Somalia – The sun rose over Bosaso, casting long shadows that mimicked the growing divide between Northeastern State and the Somali federal government. The regional leader, Said Abdullahi Deni, stood firm, echoing a sentiment that resonates across the arid lands of Northeastern State: until honest dialogue is embraced, their stance on sovereignty will remain unchanged. In his voice, a blend of resilience and hope.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has gathered the National Consultative Council (NCC) this week, in hopes of turning the tide. Yet, Northeastern State turned its back, pointing fingers at what they term as constitutional butchery. Villa Somalia, the seat of power, stands accused of disregarding the foundational principles that bind this nation. “How can we trust a government that seems to serve only the interests of a select few?” a question many in Northeastern State find themselves pondering.

Reflecting on a March 2024 decision, Deni maintained that Northeastern State remains steadfast on its course toward self-governance. “We will not shift our stance until we witness a government committed to the constitution,” Deni insisted. His words, slicing through the air like the desert winds, convey both frustration and a yearning for unity.

An air of criticism surrounds the federal government-endorsed constitutional amendments. These changes usher in the era of universal suffrage elections, bypassing comprehensive consultation. It’s a move Northeastern State and Jubaland view as unconstitutional. “Is democracy truly served if the roots are unsettled?” asks an elder from Garowe, capturing a community’s concern.

Sultan Saeed, an elder from Northeastern State, recalls a time when decisions were made under the grand acacia trees, where wisdom flowed freely with the wind. “Now, the corridors of power feel distant, disconnected,” he laments. The traditional indirect approach, where respected elders and professionals guide leadership choices, feels more authentic to the region’s cultural fabric.

Moreover, Northeastern State and Jubaland have consistently boycotted NCC meetings, unearthing deeper issues like the contentious formula for resource sharing. Somalia, grappling with chronic infighting, has seen efforts against al-Shabaab militants falter. “How can a house divided fight off external threats?” asks a young activist from Bosaso, her eyes filled with determination.

In a bold statement, Deni expressed unexpected support for North Western State of Somalia’s quest for self-determination, urging peaceful coexistence. Both administrations, feeling increasingly sidelined by Mogadishu, seek to carve their paths. Allegations of heavy-handedness in managing local affairs have only widened the cracks between regions and the federal government.

In this complex dance of politics and power, the voices from Northeastern State echo a broader quest: the search for an equitable and constitutional governance model. As Somalia stands at a crossroads, the question remains—will the federal government listen, adapt, and honor the diverse voices that sing from its soil?