Saturday October 11, 2025
Garowe (HOL) — Puntland authorities have defended their
recent agreement with Somaliland, following widespread criticism and debate
within the regional state.
Puntland Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor on Friday described
the deal as part of a long-term vision aimed at strengthening Somalia’s unity
and enhancing cooperation in areas such as security and counterterrorism.
Lugatoor said Puntland and Somaliland have cooperated on
multiple occasions in the past, adding that the new agreement is consistent
with previous initiatives. He dismissed the criticism surrounding the deal as
politically motivated and based on misinterpretations.
“The Erigavo issue is an example of how cooperation can
bring peace,” Lugatoor said. “For Somalia to become a united nation, it is
necessary to work on common interests.”
He urged Somali leaders and regional administrations to
promote collaboration, noting that the country continues to grapple with
displacement and conflict. The Vice President highlighted the plight of
families displaced by the fighting in Erigavo, who are now scattered across
towns such as Badhan, Dhahar, and Taleex.
However, several opposition parties and political figures in
Puntland have strongly opposed the agreement, arguing that it violates the
Puntland constitution and undermines the interests of its people. Critics claim
the deal could damage Somalia’s unity and embolden Somaliland’s separatist
agenda.
The controversy follows a meeting held in Nairobi between
Puntland and Somaliland officials. Opposition leaders contend that the
communiqué issued after the meeting failed to reflect Somalia’s national
interest and included language that could be interpreted as tacit recognition
of Somaliland’s claim to independence.