Somalia adds Northeastern State to federal map despite Somaliland objections
The announcement follows a year-long process that began when local leaders set up the SSC-Khaatumo transitional administration after Somaliland troops withdrew from Las Anod in early 2024.
The Federal Government of Somalia has officially declared the establishment of the Northeastern State, a new federal member state that incorporates the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn.
The announcement follows a year-long process that began when local leaders set up the SSC-Khaatumo transitional administration after Somaliland troops withdrew from Las Anod in early 2024.
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The Ministry of Interior described the state formation as the result of “consultation, perseverance, and strong determination.”
Key milestones marked the journey to statehood: on July 30, 2025, a regional conference of 417 delegates approved a new constitution. An 83-member parliament was then selected on August 17, followed by the election of parliamentary speakers on August 23. The process concluded on August 30 with the election of a president and vice president.
Community’s involvement praised
Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Hosh, who personally stayed in Las Anod for 53 days to oversee the transition, praised the community’s involvement.
“I extend my gratitude to the traditional elders, scholars, civil society, and residents of the region for their patience and their contributions during this historic process,” he said.
He also commended the Technical Committee for Administrative Formation for facilitating consultations and building confidence among the local population.
The Ministry hailed 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 August 30, parliament elected Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, widely known as Firdhiye, as president, and Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril as vice president. Federal leaders quickly extended their congratulations.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said, “This is a great day for the Somali people. The people of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn have shown commitment to peace and governance, and we will work closely with the new administration.”
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre added, “The government of Somalia will continue to support the Northeastern State as it builds institutions and delivers services for its citizens.”
Firdhiye, who had served as interim leader of SSC-Khaatumo, secured the presidency after rivals stepped aside. In his acceptance speech, he told lawmakers: “We are committed to uniting our people, healing the wounds of the past conflict, and working with the federal government to build a future of dignity and prosperity.”
Pledged cooperation
His deputy, Jibril, a former Puntland parliamentary speaker and well-known poet, pledged cooperation, saying, “Our responsibility is to serve our people with honesty and with justice. We must build a state that protects its citizens.”
Despite celebrations in Mogadishu, critics accused the federal government of influencing the leadership selection. Observers noted that both Firdhiye and Jibril were seen as Mogadishu’s preferred candidates.
Minister Ali rejected the claims, insisting, “This was a locally driven process supported by the federal government, but the decisions were made by the people of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn.”
The state’s formation follows months of conflict. In 2023, Las Anod witnessed fierce fighting between Somaliland forces and SSC militias, which ultimately forced Somaliland’s withdrawal. That retreat allowed local leaders to align with Mogadishu and begin the federal state formation process.
Yet territorial disputes remain unresolved. Somaliland has dismissed the new state as illegal.
In a statement, Hargeisa authorities declared, “The so-called Northeastern State is null and void. These regions are an integral part of the Republic of Somaliland.”
Puntland's objections
Puntland also raised objections, noting that parts of Sanaag remain under its control.
In his inaugural address, President Firdhiye addressed the issue directly: “We will reclaim all the land that belongs to our people. The future of this state will not be decided by outsiders but by the people of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn.”
In Las Anod, however, many residents welcomed the announcement.
Community elder Mohamud Hassan told local media, “For the first time, we feel recognised by the federal system. Our voice will no longer be ignored.”
As Somalia’s sixth federal member state, Northeastern State joins Jubaland, Southwest, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Puntland.
Its recognition marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s federal experiment—but also sets the stage for fresh political challenges. Whether the new leadership can build institutions, ensure stability, and manage disputes with neighbouring administrations will determine if this achievement endures.
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