(20-05-23) MOGADISHU – Puntland President, Said Abdullahi Deni, launched a blistering attack on the opposition, reasserting his commitment to proceed with local council elections scheduled for May 25th. This comes amidst heavy controversy and increasing political tensions in Puntland, as Deni’s term nears its end on January 7th next year.
Deni labelled his opposition as “a small group of dreamers”, accusing them of obstructing the democratic process and resisting governmental authority. “They used to see people in their dreams at night. Now the daydreamers have come out. I hope they wake up from that dream and come to the truth,” said Deni in an impassioned speech.
This insistence on proceeding with the elections is being perceived by members of the opposition as a stratagem for Deni to extend his stay in power. Critics argue that Deni’s aim is to take advantage of the uncertain political landscape in Puntland and to exploit the ongoing conflict with the central government.
The forthcoming local council elections have become a contentious issue, further exacerbating the complex political climate in Puntland. The question that now looms large is whether the holding of these elections will help to diffuse tensions and restore stability, or if it will inflame further conflict within this strategic autonomous region of Somalia.
With the clock ticking towards the end of his term, President Deni faces an uphill battle in maintaining stability and pushing forth his political agenda in a landscape fraught with conflict. The coming months will be pivotal, as they will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of Puntland’s political future.
