Puntland Progress: A Model for Stability and Democracy in Somalia (2024)

Garowe, PUNTLAND – Today, the Puntland government concludes its three-day ministerial retreat, aimed at reviewing the progress and challenges of the past five years and charting a course for the future. Puntland, situated in the north and northeastern part of Somalia, has emerged as a beacon of stability, democracy, and effective governance in a region long plagued by conflict, terrorism, and piracy.

A Milestone in Democratic Governance

One of Puntland’s most significant accomplishments has been its successful transition to a democratic system of governance, marked by the holding of direct elections for the first time in over five decades. This historic feat, unmatched by any other non-secessionist entity in Somalia, is a testament to Puntland’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.

The direct elections in Puntland have not only strengthened the legitimacy of the government but have also fostered a sense of ownership and participation among the people. By giving citizens a direct say in choosing their leaders, Puntland has laid the foundation for a more inclusive and accountable system of governance, one that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the people over the narrow interests of the elite.

Moreover, the success of Puntland’s democratic transition has demonstrated that it is possible to achieve stability and progress in Somalia through peaceful and participatory means, rather than through violence and coercion. This has important implications for the rest of the country, as it provides a model for how other regions can overcome their challenges and build a more stable and prosperous future.

Fighting Terrorism and Piracy on Multiple Fronts

Another key factor that sets Puntland apart from other regions in Somalia is its proactive and effective approach to combating terrorism and piracy. Puntland is the only Federal Member State (FMS) that is actively fighting both Al-Shabab and the Islamic State in Somalia (IS-Somalia), two of the most notorious terrorist groups in the region.

Puntland’s security forces have made significant gains against these groups, disrupting their operations, degrading their capabilities, and denying them safe havens from which to launch attacks. This has not only improved security within Puntland but has also helped to prevent the spread of terrorism to other parts of Somalia and beyond.

In addition to its counter-terrorism efforts, Puntland has also been at the forefront of the fight against piracy off the coast of Somalia. Puntland’s maritime police force has played a crucial role in deterring and intercepting pirate attacks, thereby helping to secure vital shipping lanes and protect international trade.

The Power of Local Legitimacy and Good Governance

Perhaps the most important factor behind Puntland’s success has been its ability to earn the trust and support of its people through effective and responsive governance. Unlike many other regions in Somalia, where corruption is rampant and the government is often seen as distant and unaccountable, Puntland has managed to build a strong bond between the state and the citizens.

This local legitimacy and acceptance of the government by the people is rooted in Puntland’s commitment to serving the needs and interests of its citizens. The government has invested in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and has worked to create an enabling environment for economic growth and development.

Moreover, Puntland has made a concerted effort to involve citizens in the decision-making process, through mechanisms such as public consultations, town hall meetings, and participatory budgeting. This has helped to ensure that government policies and programs are aligned with the priorities of the people, and has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens.

In contrast, many parts of southern Somalia continue to be plagued by corruption, weak institutions, and a lack of public trust in the government. This has created a vacuum that has been exploited by groups like Al-Shabab, which have been able to gain a foothold in these areas by presenting themselves as an alternative to the dysfunctional state.

Lessons for the Rest of Somalia

As the Puntland government reflects on its progress and plans for the future during its ministerial retreat, it is important to recognize the broader significance of its experience for the rest of Somalia. Puntland’s success in building a stable, democratic, and effective system of governance offers valuable lessons for other regions in the country that are struggling to overcome their challenges.

First and foremost, Puntland’s experience underscores the importance of local ownership and leadership in driving positive change. Rather than relying on external interventions or top-down solutions, Puntland has charted its own course based on the needs and aspirations of its people. This has enabled it to build strong and resilient institutions that are deeply rooted in the local context and enjoy the trust and support of the population.

Second, Puntland’s success in combating terrorism and piracy demonstrates the effectiveness of a comprehensive and proactive approach to security. By investing in its security forces, strengthening its institutions, and working closely with local communities, Puntland has been able to disrupt the operations of terrorist groups and protect its citizens from harm. This offers a model for how other regions in Somalia can address their security challenges in a sustainable and effective manner.

Finally, Puntland’s commitment to good governance and public service delivery offers a blueprint for how to build a social contract between the state and the citizens. By prioritizing the needs and interests of its people, and by involving them in the decision-making process, Puntland has created a virtuous cycle of legitimacy and effectiveness that has enabled it to overcome its challenges and achieve remarkable progress.