By Abdifatah Kassim
Somalia’s federalism has become a source of division rather than unity, as tensions between the federal government and member states escalate. Nowhere is this more evident than in the ongoing disputes with Jubaland and Puntland. Jubaland, with its strategic control over southern and eastern regions, has openly clashed with Mogadishu over authority, security, and territorial control. Recent escalations have seen violent confrontations, highlighting the deep mistrust between the federal government and regional leaders. Puntland, on the other hand, has maintained a consistently strained relationship with the central government, often rejecting federal policies and asserting its autonomy. These states, at times, operate as de facto independent entities, making national cohesion increasingly elusive.
This fragmentation is exacerbated by the involvement of foreign governments, which engage directly with federal states to advance their own interests. Such actions undermine the federal government’s authority and sovereignty, creating parallel power structures that weaken the nation’s ability to present a unified front. Jubaland and Puntland’s alliances with external actors have further complicated Somalia’s fragile political environment, deepening the rift between regional administrations and the central government. The lack of a coherent national security apparatus, with regional militias loyal to federal states rather than the national government, adds another layer of complexity.
To address these challenges, Somalia must reconsider its federal system and move toward a centralized governance model that prioritizes unity while ensuring equitable resource distribution and representation. A strong central government, with exclusive control over critical functions such as foreign policy, national security, and development planning, is essential for restoring stability and sovereignty. Decentralized resource management, however, would allow regions to manage local development in alignment with national goals, fostering inclusivity without compromising national cohesion.
A centralized system must also address representation. Regional leaders should have formal roles within national institutions to ensure their concerns are addressed. Structured representation in a national legislative or advisory council could provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration, reducing the likelihood of unilateral actions by regional administrations. Proportional development policies would also help bridge historical inequalities, fostering a sense of unity among regions.
Centralizing military control is critical. The integration of regional militias into a unified national army would not only enhance security but also eliminate the power imbalances currently exploited by regional states. Similarly, reclaiming exclusive control over foreign policy would ensure Somalia’s sovereignty is protected from external interference, restoring the federal government’s ability to act as the sole representative of the nation on the global stage.
Transitioning from federalism to a centralized system will require careful planning, inclusive dialogue, and phased implementation. Clan leaders, civil society, and regional representatives must be engaged in discussions to design a system that balances national unity with local autonomy. Trust-building measures, such as transparent governance and fair resource allocation, will be vital to ensuring the success of this transition.
By addressing the current challenges posed by federalism and implementing a centralized governance model with decentralized resource management, Somalia can lay the foundation for a united and stable nation. The elimination of federal states’ military control and their undue influence over foreign policy will be a critical step toward achieving this vision.
The Writer, is a Former Member of County Assembly for Township Ward- Garissa County Assembly and Political commentator in East and Horn of Africa.
