Hornpost
Flights Carrying Puntland and Jubaland Officials Blocked by Somalia F. Government and Turned Back.
Mogadishu (Horn post) Talks planned between the Federal Government of Somalia, regional administrations, and opposition leaders were disrupted on Sunday after federal authorities reportedly blocked flights carrying security personnel and delegations from Puntland and Jubaland to Mogadishu. The delegations were in route to participate in a scheduled consultation on national stability and inclusive political processes.
The President of Puntland, speaking at a military training closing ceremony, condemned the incident. He stated that advanced teams from Puntland, including presidential security units, were turned back mid-flight. “This is a criminal act and an attempted assassination that will be accounted for,” he said, promising that Puntland would respond appropriately.
Both Puntland and Jubaland issued statements expressing concern. Jubaland described the federal decision as a “serious breach of protocol” that endangered the lives of their advance delegation and presidential security. According to Jubaland, civil aviation authorities, federal security agencies, and meeting organizers were informed in advance, but the decision to turn back the plane was made unexpectedly, raising safety and logistical concerns.
The Federal Government, through Minister of Defense Ahmed Macalin Fiqi, rejected the allegations. He questioned the purpose of sending armed contingents to the capital, asking whether the mission was dialogue, signaling, or provocation. The minister stressed that the federal government maintains security for all, including foreign dignitaries, and that armed personnel at critical locations such as Aden Adde International Airport pose a security risk.
Meanwhile, the Somali Future Council (GMS) condemned the federal action, noting that it undermines planned dialogue efforts. The council confirmed its commitment to transparent and genuine consultations, despite attempts to disrupt the process, including meeting interference, constitutional disputes, and restrictions on flight movements.
Analysts said the decision to block flights could erode confidence in Mogadishu’s security among Puntland and Jubaland leaders. The incident may compel the federal government and regional administrations to reconsider hosting sensitive dialogue in the capital. Observers suggest that international mediation or relocation of discussions to a neutral or internationally supervised venue may be required to ensure security and political continuity.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
Hargeisa Somaliland.
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