The Daily Somalia — A security understanding signed in Nairobi between Puntland and Somaliland has sparked sharp criticism at home. The agreement commits both sides to fight Al-Shabaab, ISIS, and cross-border crime and to cooperate on maritime security. Critics say the deal was rushed and poorly explained.
The Deputy Speaker of the Puntland parliament, Mohamed Baarri, defended the move. He said Somaliland has its own passport and flag and that Puntland should stand by neighbouring communities. His remarks added fuel to an already heated debate.
Four major Puntland parties IFIYE, MUSTAQBAL, MIDEEYE, and SINCAD — issued a joint statement condemning the agreement. They called it unconstitutional and said it risks encouraging separatist agendas. The parties urged the Puntland parliament to annul the deal.
Some Puntland ministers later denied reports that the talks covered recognition or territorial changes. The minister of interior said discussions focused on security, counterterrorism, and trade. That clarification has not calmed critics who say the process lacked transparency.
The Council for Justice and Democracy, led by Puntland opposition leader Dr. Guled Salah, strongly rejected the agreement, saying it “breaks what Puntland was founded upon” and damages the region’s moral and political credibility.
Legal experts and senior politicians point to Puntland’s own charter, which binds the region to Somalia’s unity and requires federal consultation on major moves. They say any step that appears to edge toward separate arrangements must face public and parliamentary scrutiny. Critics argued the Nairobi meeting ignored those rules.
Supporters of the understanding say cooperation with Somaliland is practical. They argue shared threats require local solutions and fast action. Opponents say practical aims do not excuse bypassing legal steps. They warn that hurried deals deepen mistrust with Mogadishu and risk destabilising northern politics.
The debate now centres on two questions. Will Puntland’s parliament demand the full text and explanations. Will Mogadishu press for clarity and legal review. For many in Puntland the immediate fear is that a security pact became political business without public consent.
