Explainer | Power play in Las Anod: Who Won the Political Standoff?

Despite the presence of senior federal leaders, opposition figures based in Mogadishu neither attended nor congratulated the fledgling administration. However, their absence had no impact on the formation or inauguration process, which proceeded smoothly. This marked yet another political victory for Villa Somalia over its opponents.

4. Puntland’s Role

Puntland did not present a unified stance. While the government led by President Said Abdullahi Deni stayed away from the ceremony, traditional elders, clan leaders, and even Puntland security forces based in Garowe took part, particularly in securing the event. As a result, the impact of Deni and his cabinet’s absence was hardly felt.

5. A New Demand from Awdal Reaches Hassan

During the ceremony, voices from the Awdal region emerged, calling for recognition as a federal member state under the Federal Government of Somalia. This signalled another formal demand reaching President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, potentially increasing the chances of another federal state being established in the near future.

The Las Anod inauguration ultimately became a defining political show of force. The city turned into the stage where influence was demonstrated, alliances were clarified, and the contours of Somalia’s evolving political map were openly revealed.