Garowe, Somalia| Puntland has strongly opposed Somalia’s National Identification Card registration initiative, calling it a politically motivated scheme that threatens the region’s autonomy.
The semi-autonomous state warned its residents against participating in the program, arguing that it is legally questionable, financially burdensome, and a potential tool for political manipulation.
In an official statement on Tuesday, Puntland’s Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Democratization reaffirmed its rejection of any national law or initiative imposed without prior consensus.
The ministry accused the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) of using the National ID project to advance an agenda that lacks broad political agreement, particularly concerning electoral processes.
Puntland officials claimed that the initiative was designed to facilitate “illegitimate elections,” further deepening political divisions rather than fostering national unity.
Political Dispute Over the National ID System
The Somali government has positioned the National ID initiative as a critical step toward strengthening governance, improving public service delivery, and enhancing security.
However, Puntland remains skeptical, arguing that the project is a distraction from Somalia’s pressing challenges, including insecurity, economic instability, and unresolved political disputes between the central government and regional administrations.
Puntland officials insist that the Federal Government is using the program as a mechanism to consolidate power and marginalize regions that have historically sought greater autonomy.
They argue that the ID registration effort lacks transparency and is being implemented without adequate consultation with Puntland’s leadership.
Furthermore, the administration asserts that the project imposes an unnecessary economic burden on Somali citizens, describing it as a “wealth accumulation scheme” that benefits select political actors rather than the general population.
Concerns Over Data Security and Autonomy
Beyond the political implications, Puntland has raised serious concerns about the security of citizens’ personal data collected through the National ID program.
Officials warn that the information could be misused or fall into unreliable hands, posing risks to individuals and regional stability.
The FGS, however, has dismissed these concerns, assuring the public that the ID system is designed with safeguards to protect personal data and ensure national security.
Despite these assurances, Puntland remains unconvinced, citing past instances of data mismanagement and breaches within government institutions.
A Broader Struggle for Regional Autonomy
Puntland’s rejection of the National ID initiative underscores the broader struggle for power between Somalia’s central government and its federal member states.
As one of Somalia’s most politically and economically influential regions, Puntland has long sought greater self-governance and has often clashed with Mogadishu over issues of federalism, resource-sharing, and electoral processes.
This latest dispute reflects ongoing tensions over the balance of power in Somalia’s federal system, with Puntland asserting its right to self-determination in the face of what it perceives as unilateral decisions by the central government.
While Somalia’s government continues to push for nationwide implementation of the National ID, Puntland’s firm opposition signals a deepening rift that could complicate efforts to build a unified and stable federal state.
The coming weeks are likely to see further negotiations—or escalations—between the two sides as the debate over the National ID and its implications for Somalia’s future unfolds.
Share This Post