Garowe, Puntland.
Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni strongly criticized the ongoing talks between Somalia and Somaliland, asserting his disapproval during an announcement party for his candidacy for the Puntland presidency.
Deni, addressing the gathering, described the talks between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi, currently taking place in Djibouti, as misguided. He voiced his objection, stating, “We are criticizing and condemning the meeting in Djibouti. It is wrong to discuss Somalia in the absence of Puntland.”
The Puntland President’s criticism coincides with the resumption of talks between Somalia and Somaliland, moderated by Djibouti’s President, Ismail Omar Guelleh. The discussions, which entered the second day today, aim to address longstanding issues and foster diplomatic relations between the two entities.
President Deni’s remarks reflect the complexity and divergent opinions within Somalia regarding the ongoing dialogue. Despite the challenges, expectations remain high among the Somali people for positive outcomes from the talks facilitated by President Guelleh.
