Tuesday February 13, 2024
Garowe (HOL) - The Puntland administration has voiced strong opposition against attempts by the federal government to amend Somalia's interim constitution, signalling a deepening rift over national governance.
Puntland's Minister of Justice, Mohamed Abdi Wahab, has criticized President Hassan Sheikh's plans to change the foundational governmental agreement, suggesting such actions could destabilize the country's political and security landscape.
Wahab emphasized that while Puntland is not opposed to constitutional revisions in principle, any changes must follow the legal framework outlined in the constitution's Chapter 15, which requires amendments to be made through an inclusive process of agreement and consultation. The Minister accused the current federal leadership of bypassing this critical process, risking national unity and sovereignty.
"The disregard for the constitution by President Hassan Sheikh and his administration marks a dangerous departure from the legal and agreed-upon path, threatening over fifty years of national consensus," Wahab stated. He further warned that Puntland would not recognize any changes made outside the constitutional framework, underlining the administration's commitment to legal processes and national unity.
As tensions rise, the debate over constitutional amendments underscores the fragile balance between Somalia's federal and regional powers, with Puntland positioning itself as a staunch defender of legal governance and Somali sovereignty.
On Sunday, several Puntland regional lawmakers penned a letter to Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, pleading with him to cancel his plans for constitutional amendments. However, their pleas were brushed aside as President Mohamud told lawmakers that the process was non-negotiable.