Puntland reaffirms refusal to join Somali National Army until Federal disputes are resolved

Puntland’s Cabinet has reaffirmed that the regional administration will not integrate its forces into Somalia’s national military structure until outstanding political and security disputes with the Federal Government are resolved.

The decision was announced following a cabinet meeting chaired by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and attended by Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor on June 18, during which officials reviewed the security situation across the region.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the cabinet reiterated Puntland’s longstanding position that its forces will remain outside the Somali National Army framework until all unresolved issues between Puntland and the Federal Government of Somalia are addressed. The statement noted that these disputes include disagreements over the management and structure of the country’s federal security institutions.

The Puntland government also directed all regional security and justice agencies to prevent armed personnel and military units not affiliated with Puntland’s security forces from operating or transiting through areas under Puntland’s control.

Authorities further warned that any actions deemed to violate Puntland’s laws and regulations would be met with appropriate legal measures.

The cabinet called on residents to support efforts aimed at maintaining security and stability throughout Puntland and to cooperate with security agencies in safeguarding the region.

The latest declaration underscores continuing tensions between Puntland and the Federal Government over constitutional, political, and security matters, particularly regarding the formation of a unified federal army and broader governance arrangements.

Mustaqbal