Somalia: Northeastern State Stands Its Ground in NCC Boycott, Calls for Innovation

BOSASO, Somalia – In a region often defined by its tumultuous political landscape, Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni’s decision to boycott the forthcoming National Consultation Conference (NCC) in Mogadishu marks a decisive moment. His firm stance, set against the backdrop of growing federal tensions, raises critical questions about the path forward for Somalia’s federal landscape.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony for PMPF troops in the bustling coastal city of Bosaso, Deni laid out his concerns. “I will not partake in an NCC that mirrors past missteps,” he declared. And in that simple statement lies a plethora of historical grievances and present-day apprehensions.

Reflecting on his past withdrawal in December 2022, Deni has been candid about his reasons: unilateral and opaque constitutional changes driven by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration. The Somali political process, delicate and often precarious, hinges on these moments of confrontation and resolution.

“Why not meet in Garowe?” Deni suggested, painting Northeastern State’s own capital as an alternative venue for dialogue. But what kind of dialogue does Northeastern State envision? His call for a fairer, inclusive process leaves lingering questions about what has been missing thus far and what a re-imagined NCC might achieve.

The NCC endeavours to smooth the jagged edges of Somalia’s governance, tackling constitutional reforms and security. Yet, the absence of Northeastern State and Jubaland’s leadership threatens its unifying mission. One might wonder, in this ever-evolving dance of diplomacy, can an NCC truly find its rhythm?

Northeastern State’s ongoing friction with Mogadishu is no secret. At its core lie issues of power-sharing and resource allocation—a melody familiar to many federal struggles worldwide. Deni’s statements, resonant with regional dissatisfaction, highlight an accusation often wielded: the federal government’s centralizing push.

Somalia’s political tapestry is richly fragmented. With territories like Northeastern State and Jubaland priding themselves on autonomy, resistance to federal encroachment is both a historical narrative and modern reality. The boycott prompts crucial questions about the NCC’s capacity to yield binding outcomes. Can governance find its equilibrium amid such centrifugal forces?

So far, Mogadishu’s response to Deni’s defiance remains a quiet echo. Observers caution that the stalemate, amidst threats from Al-Shabaab and internal clan rivalries, only stalls vital governance realignment. As Somalia’s friends and international partners look on, the need for political cohesiveness to secure continued support is evident.

Journeying through this political impasse, we’re reminded of the words of philosopher John Stuart Mill: “A person may cause evil to others not only by his actions but by his inaction, and in either case he is justly accountable to them for the injury.” Could the NCC, without addressing these grievances, inadvertently perpetuate fractures?

For now, Deni appears resolute. With Northeastern State’s unity in focus, he emphasizes a willingness for dialogue but remains unyielding on principles. “We stand for Somalia’s unity, yet not at the cost of our convictions,” he affirmed to the applause of his audience—an applause echoing more than support; it resonated with a shared vision of Northeastern State’s uniqueness.

As Somalia presses forward, it’s not just the decisions of leaders that will shape its future, but the conversations, the willingness to listen, and to innovate in the face of recurring challenges. The NCC’s potential lies not in repeating history but in daring to rewrite it.