Somalia’s Puntland withdraws recognition of federal govt, rejects presidency of Hassan Sheikh

Somalia’s Puntland State announced its withdrawal of recognition and trust in the federal government of Somalia, stating that it no longer recognizes President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as legitimate.

In a statement delivered by Puntland’s Minister of Information following a cabinet meeting chaired by President Said Abdullahi Deni in Garowe, Puntland announced its withdrawal from recognition and trust in the federal government of Somalia.

Puntland emphasized its commitment to acting as “a complete independent government” until a federal system of government, based on consensus and an agreed Somali constitution, is established through a public referendum in which Puntland participates.

This decision by Puntland follows dissatisfaction with moves to amend the federal constitution of Somalia, which Puntland deemed illegitimate and non-inclusive. Puntland insists on recognizing only the 2012 version of the constitution.

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