Sunday July 14, 2024
Acting UN Special Representative James Swan continued today his visits to Somalia’s Federal Member States with a stop in Garowe where he met with Puntland’s President Said Abdullahi Deni. CREDIT/ UNSOM
Garowe (HOL) — The Acting UN Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, emphasized the need for Somali leaders to unite in addressing national challenges during his visit to Garowe on Saturday. Accompanied by senior officials from key UN agencies, Swan met with Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni to discuss development priorities, security concerns, and upcoming local elections.
Swan urged leaders in Mogadishu and Garowe, along with other Federal Member State leaders, to "overcome any outstanding differences" and collaborate on solutions to the country's challenges. He spotlighted the progress made in recent years and stressed the importance of cooperative action to benefit the Somali people.
"To this end, I urge leaders in Mogadishu and Garowe, with the help of other Federal Member State leaders, to take the necessary steps so that they can resume working together cooperatively."
Swan's appeal for unity among Somali leaders comes amidst political tensions and Puntland's recent moves towards greater autonomy. In March 2024, Puntland withdrew recognition of the Somali Federal Government following a historic constitutional amendment.
Despite ongoing disputes, the Somali Federal Government resumed development projects in Puntland in June 2024. President Deni had previously called for direct international aid and budget support and has expressed readiness for direct talks with the Federal Government.
However, Puntland rejected a federal report on anti-Al-Shabaab operations in May 2024, indicating ongoing disagreements over security strategies.
In his discussions with President Deni, Swan commended Puntland's efforts in containing terrorist groups in the Bari region and managing clan conflicts in the Mudug region. He also expressed concern over renewed piracy incidents and the impact of continued migration flows.
Swan's delegation included Crispen Rukasha from the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Ezana Kassa from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Prestage Murima from the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The upcoming direct local elections in the Nugal region, including Garowe, scheduled for July 23, were a key topic. These elections aim to build on the achievements of the May 2023 local elections, reinforcing democratization and the participation of women and youth. Swan expressed hope that the polls would further enhance political participation in Puntland.