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President Hassan invites Puntland leader for meeting amid tension over constitutional changes

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addresses congregants during Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Isbahysiga Mosque in Mogadishu on April 10, 2024. (Photo: SONNA)

By Hassan Mohamed and Yassin Juma | 16 Apr 2024

Puntland criticises the constitutional changes for concentrating powers in the hands of the executive, while the Federal government says the constitutional amendments are necessary to establish a stable political system

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has extended an invitation to Somalia’s regional state leaders to a consultative meeting in Mogadishu amid tension triggered by the recent constitutional amendments

Notably at the top of the invitation list is Puntland leader Said Deni, despite the semi-autonomous region's recent decision to revoke its recognition of federal government institutions over planned constitution changes.

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The constitutional changes include a new one-man, one-vote election system, the introduction of direct presidential elections, and allowing the President to appoint a Prime minister without parliamentary approval.

According to the Villa Somalia invitation, the constitutional amendment will be on the agenda.

“The meeting will discuss matters about the destiny of the country, including fighting terrorism and completion of the constitution,” the invitation partly said.

Also invited are the leader of Hirshabelle State Ali Gudlawe Hussein, Galmudug’s Ahmed Abdi Karie Qoor Qoor, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed of South West, and Jubaland’s Ahmed Madobe.
The Mayor of Mogadishu, who is the leader of Banaadir region, has also been invited

The Eastleigh Voice earlier learned of a planned joint statement by regional state leaders to express a united stance on the recent constitutional changes approved by the federal parliament on March 30, 2024.

The National Consultative Council is scheduled to be held from April 20 to 21. It remains to be seen if Puntland leader Said Deni will honour the Villa Somalia invitation after the semi-autonomous region pulled recognition of Mogadishu.

Puntland criticises the constitutional changes for concentrating powers in the hands of the executive, while the Federal government says the constitutional amendments are necessary to establish a stable political system