(18-03-23) BAIDOA – While a historic agreement on Fiscal Federalism and National Security Architecture was reached between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and Federal Member States (FMS), the absence of Puntland and the ongoing conflict in Laascaanood cast a shadow over the negotiations.
The leaders in attendance, including President Hassan Sheikh, Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama, and the Presidents of regional governments, were able to forge a groundbreaking deal that could pave the way for a stronger, more unified Somalia with better resource allocation and enhanced security measures.
However, Puntland’s absence from the agreement remains a significant concern, as it could affect the implementation of the provisions agreed upon by the leaders. To address this, President Laftagareen, along with QorQor and Ali Guudlawe, has been sent to Puntland to encourage dialogue between President Saed Deni and Villa Somalia.
The forum also discussed matters related to reviewing the Constitution and the status of the capital but failed to find common ground on these issues. The decisions made during the meeting will not be effective until the establishment of Federal Economic Institutions, which Puntland has already rejected.
The conflict in Laascaanood was another focal point of the negotiations. The council refrained from explicitly naming the genocide committed by Somaliland against the people of Laascaanood. Instead, they sent a message of peace to the warring parties in Laascaanood city, condemning those who instigated the war and perpetuated the conflict. The Council emphasized that dialogue is the only path forward and urged all parties to come to the negotiating table. The Federal Government expressed its full commitment to participating in peacekeeping efforts.
While the agreement marks a significant step towards addressing Somalia’s long-standing political and economic issues, the impact of Puntland’s absence and the ongoing conflict in Laascaanood on the implementation of the provisions remains to be seen. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether the groundbreaking deal can lead to a stronger, more unified Somalia.
