The Puntland Council of Politicians and Scholars has issued a statement expressing strong concern about the political and security situation in Puntland, calling for the preservation of statehood, peace and social development.
In a statement issued by the council on Tuesday, they said that Puntland was facing political and security challenges, which they accused the administration of President Said Abdullahi Deni of being a part of.
The council criticized the Puntland President for abusing his power, saying that the measures he took had affected the security and stability of the Puntland regions.
The statement also said that President Deni was accused of deviating from the Puntland constitution and laws, and changing existing legal procedures, with the council arguing that these issues had damaged the democratic process and public trust.
The Puntland Council of Politicians and Scholars also condemned what they described as the Federal Government of Somalia’s interference in Puntland affairs, saying that such actions could further fuel political and security conflicts in the Puntland regions.
The statement also condemned the attack on journalist Dr. Mahmoud Mashruq in Garowe, with the council calling on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and bring to justice all those involved.
The council called on the people of Puntland to maintain peace, unity and social cohesion, and refrain from actions that could incite conflict and division.
Meanwhile, the Puntland Islamic community and intellectuals were called on to further strengthen their role in maintaining stability, reconciliation and defending the Puntland system of governance.
The statement concluded with a call for all political parties in Puntland to prioritize dialogue, the rule of law and the common good in order to prevent future tensions that affect the security and development of Puntland.
