Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s Federal Interior Minister, Ali Yusuf Ali (Ali Hosh), has delivered a scathing critique of Puntland’s President Said Abdullahi Deni, accusing him of leadership failures that have fueled extremism and stalled development in the state.
In an open letter, Minister Ali strongly criticized Puntland’s governance, describing it as directionless and self-serving. “Puntland’s leadership has prioritized personal interests over the collective good, leaving the region vulnerable to extremist groups like Daesh and Al-Shabaab,” the minister wrote. He stressed that the Calmiskaad mountains and other areas have become dangerous strongholds due to Puntland's failure to address security concerns effectively.
The minister’s words were unflinching as he addressed the state’s declining developmental trajectory. “Projects that could have transformed Puntland have been obstructed, and the people’s trust in their leadership has been eroded,” he said, highlighting delays in key initiatives like infrastructure and education programs.
Minister Ali also accused President Deni of abandoning Puntland’s founding principles. “Puntland was established as a model of peace, unity, and progress. Today, its leadership has strayed far from that vision, deepening divisions and undermining its role in Somalia’s national development.”
He further emphasized the need for Puntland’s leadership to separate internal political disputes from strategic national issues, such as counter-terrorism and economic stability. “The failure to address extremist threats decisively and the introduction of ill-conceived economic policies have created unnecessary hardships for the people,” he added.
The Federal Interior Minister called for urgent reforms and a return to Puntland’s original mission. “The people of Puntland deserve leadership that prioritizes their security and development over personal or political agendas. Anything less is a disservice to the region and the nation.”
The letter, which has sparked heated debate, comes amid increasing tensions between the Federal Government and Puntland. While President Deni’s administration has not yet responded, the criticism underscores the growing frustration over Puntland’s current leadership and its handling of key regional and national issues.
