Monday September 1, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali federal government has officially completed the process of establishing the Northeastern administration, integrating the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions into the federal structure of Somalia.
The process, described as a product of “consultation, perseverance, and strong determination,” began last year when local leaders formed a transitional administration known as SSC-Khaatumo.
The Interior Minister spent 53 days in Las Anod to oversee the formation process, expressing gratitude to traditional elders, scholars, civil society, and residents of the region for their patience and contributions. The government also praised the Technical Committee for Administrative Formation for facilitating consultations and building public confidence.
The Ministry described the creation of the Northeastern state as “a major achievement for the people of the region and a symbol of unity, solidarity, and the consolidation of Somalia’s federal system.”
On Saturday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre congratulated Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, known as Firdhiye, and Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril following their election as president and vice president of the new state in Las Anod.
Firdhiye, who previously served as interim leader of SSC-Khaatumo, secured the presidency after rivals withdrew and lawmakers realigned their votes. Jibril, a former Puntland parliament speaker and poet close to Firdhiye, was elected deputy president. Both men were widely seen as Mogadishu’s preferred candidates—a perception that fueled opposition allegations of federal interference in the process.