Somalia :Jubaland Rejects Federal ID Card Program, Cites Lack of Agreement

Jubaland has issued a strong warning to its citizens against participating in the National ID Card program spearheaded by Somalia’s federal agency, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).

The regional state stated it does not recognize the ID card, echoing a similar rejection previously made by Puntland.

In a press release from the Ministry of Interior, Jubaland declared that any initiative lacking consensus and legal agreement between regional and federal governments will not be accepted or implemented in Jubaland.

“The Ministry of Interior affirms that it does not recognize the so-called National ID Card, which lacks a mutually agreed legal framework,” the statement read.

It further described the ID initiative as an attempt to push forward political agendas.

The ministry urged residents in areas under Jubaland’s control to strictly adhere to the laws and systems established by the Jubaland administration and avoid actions that could create instability.

“Jubaland remains committed to advancing the interests of its people and will always prioritize serving the community that has mandated it,” the statement added.

Puntland previously rejected NIRA’s national ID system and established a parallel agency. The federal government responded with strong opposition, accusing Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni of obstructing legally recognized national institutions.

Mustaqbal