Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia has entered a dark tunnel of constitutional and political conflict. As constitutional tensions rise, Somalia is dealing with the collective and unequivocal rejection by the federal government in Mogadishu of its decision to terminate all agreements with the United Arab Emirates.
Abolishing parallel sovereignty
The Federal Cabinet in Mogadishu issued a surprise decision on January 12, 2026, mandating the immediate termination of all forms of cooperation with the UAE, including security and defense agreements.
And he decision also included the cancellation of contracts for the management of vital ports in Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo.
The central government justified the decision by claiming to possess evidence of the UAE “undermining Somalia’s sovereignty.” This was done through airspace violations, geopolitical interventions in the Sudanese conflict, and tensions related to Israel’s recognition of “Somaliland,” highlighting Somalia’s political dynamics.
A united rejection front
In response to this decision, a broad regional front of rejection emerged, revealing the limits of federal authority:
Puntland: Described the decision as “illegal and meaningless.” It affirmed that the agreement to develop the port of Bosaso with DP World remained in effect. The state cited loopholes in the provisional constitution, arguing that Mogadishu was “overstepping its authority.” It added that the decision infringed upon the regions’ rights to manage their resources, showing Somalia’s internal conflicts.
Somaliland: Clearly declared that Mogadishu’s decisions were “irrelevant.” It asserted its complete control over the port of Berbera and its full independence in managing its foreign and economic affairs.
Jubaland: Joined the chorus of rejection. It announced its non-recognition of the federal government’s move, further isolating Mogadishu politically from Somalia’s regional partnerships.
Collapse of the center’s actual authority
Political analysts warn that this collective rejection puts Mogadishu’s authority to the test.
Somalia’s federal government does not exercise direct control over these ports,
making the implementation of the decision virtually impossible on the ground.
Observers believe this development could lead to the collapse of the fragile federal system.
The states insist on securing their own independent partnerships to bolster their security
and economies, free from the control of the central government, which they describe as “weak and autocratic.”
