The Somali Future Council expressed deep concern in what it described that the military and security agencies are being used as a political tool against the Federal Member States, and opposition politicians, calling for an end to the measures, saying that they pose a threat to the stability in the country. The Council accused the incumbent Somali President, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose term in office has already expired, of organizing militias and fueling the security tensions in Puntland. The Council further disclosed that this is happening at a time when Puntland is engaged in war against ISIS groups, and has made huge progress in combating extremist groups such ISIS. In a statement the council released, it revealed that igniting new conflicts could jeopardize the gains made in the fight against ISIS, and could undermine the efforts of Puntland and its international partners against terrorism. Meanwhile, the statement from the Council allegedly accused the Somali Federal Government of using troops and weapons in operations against Jubaland, Southwest, and opposition politicians, instead of using them in the war against Al-Shabab. It went on to say that the country is still facing political conflict amid heightened dispute over the electoral process and the transitional period. The Somali Future Council has called upon the International Community, African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN), IGAD and other partners to take urgent measures to protect the worsening political and security situation in the country. It also called for an inclusive electoral agreement, and urged that the international support be grounded in upholding the constitution, ensuring the neutrality of security institutions and strengthening the stability. In conclusion, the council further warned the International Community that if urgent measures are not taken, the gains made in the fight against terrorist groups may be jeopardized, and Somalia may face political security and instability that affect the entire region. Furthermore, Puntland President, Mr. Saed Abdilahi Deni, has accused the Somali Federal Government of violating the agreed constitution and damaging the Federal system and government institutions. Deni, speaking on the 66th independence anniversary event held in Garowe, said that Somalia is still facing political challenges as the result of the collapse of the central government, saying that the aspirations of rebuilding a Somali government based on agreement and solidarity is at risk today. He accused the Federal Government of “abolishing the agreed constitution” and undermining the federal system and the independence of government institutions. He argued that national forces were used for political purposes, citing the example of the recent armed clashes in Mogadishu, which he said targeted politicians and traditional elders. Deni highlighted that Puntland stands for the unity of Somalia and the protection of the federal system. Speaking of reports relating to the recruitment of federal troops in Puntland, he said that the security of Puntland is under control and that there is no need to bring troops from elsewhere.’ He scathingly accused the federal government of trying to disrupt the development and the stability in Puntland. He called on the people of Puntland to maintain their unity and be aware of what he described as “propaganda and plans to confuse the community”. He asserted that Puntland will continue to defend its security and protect the federal system, noting that its forces are ready to defend the people and areas under its control. Conversely, he accused the President of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, of leading the country with a short-term vision, and has deviated from the agreements established by the federal government.
