Bosaso, Somalia (Salmurux News) Somali politician Maxamuud Mohamed Barre, a native of Puntland and an adviser on reconciliation affairs in the Office of the Prime Minister of Somalia, has called for political dialogue to address the growing tensions in Puntland following recent armed clashes in the Bari region.
Speaking in an interview, Barre described the confrontation as the result of a long-standing political dispute rather than a purely security-related incident. He warned that continued reliance on military measures could deepen divisions and further destabilize the region.
“Puntland Cannot Be Governed Through Force”
Barre argued that lasting stability in Puntland can only be achieved through adherence to the rule of law, inclusive governance, and dialogue.
He urged Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni to prioritize political engagement over military action, emphasizing that public confidence is built through lawful governance rather than the use of force.
“Puntland cannot be governed through force. It must be governed through the rule of law, dialogue, and public trust,” Barre said.
Calls for a Clear Separation of Security Responsibilities
Barre also called for a clearer distinction between the responsibilities of Puntland’s security institutions.
According to him, internal security duties—including policing urban areas, checkpoints, and maintaining public order—should remain the responsibility of the Puntland Police Force. He argued that the Puntland Darawish forces were established primarily for territorial defense and border security, and should not routinely perform police functions.
He warned that overlapping security mandates could create confusion and increase the risk of confrontation between security forces.
Political Roots of the Crisis
Barre maintained that the recent violence reflects unresolved political disagreements that have accumulated over time.
He stressed that disputes of this nature should be addressed through constitutional and political mechanisms rather than military confrontation, warning that armed responses risk escalating tensions and harming civilians.
Responsibility for the Clashes
The politician said Puntland’s leadership and security institutions bear primary responsibility for investigating the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensuring accountability where appropriate.
He called for an impartial investigation to establish the facts and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Federal Government’s Constitutional Role
Barre noted that Somalia’s Federal Government has constitutional responsibilities concerning national defense and the country’s sovereignty.
However, he argued that day-to-day internal security within Puntland falls under the jurisdiction of the Puntland administration, adding that any political disagreements between Puntland and the Federal Government should be resolved through dialogue and constitutional processes.
Appeal for Peace
Concluding his remarks, Barre urged Puntland’s political leaders, traditional elders, civil society, and the Federal Government to work together to reduce tensions and prevent further violence.
He said the people of Puntland deserve peace, stability, and leadership that prioritizes dialogue, justice, and the rule of law over political confrontation.
Key Takeaways
- Maxamuud Mohamed Barre says the recent violence in Puntland is rooted in political disagreements.
- He urged Puntland authorities to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than military action.
- Barre called for a clearer separation between the roles of the Puntland Police and Darawish forces.
- He emphasized that accountability and an independent investigation are essential following the recent clashes.
- He called on both Puntland and the Federal Government to resolve their differences through constitutional and political dialogue.
