Garowe, Puntland – Turkey’s growing policy in Somalia has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Puntland, the semi-autonomous region in the northeast of the country.
According to statements by the Minister of State for Information in Puntland,
Mahmoud Aidid Dirir, published on the “Garwey Online” website on December 22-23, 2025,
Türkiye’s intervention in Somali affairs has not contributed effectively
to achieving stability or good governance.
He pointed out that Ankara’s role is subject to “narrow calculations
based on corruption and abuse of power.”
No tangible contributions were made.
Derere explained that the Turkish government has not made
any tangible contributions to Somalia’s future, and that its intervention
Despite the extensive military and economic presence,
this has not had a positive impact on the security or political situation.
He stressed the importance of transparency and having partners
who focus on the interests of Somali citizens.
Tensions with Puntland
Puntland has long-standing tensions with the federal government in Mogadishu over power-sharing
and resource sharing, making interventions by external powers, such as Türkiye, controversial.
Previous incidents, such as the seizure of a Turkish arms ship off the coast of Puntland in July 2025,
highlighted the lack of trust between the region and Ankara.
Critics of Turkish policy argue that Turkish expansion,
officially presented as support for security and development,
It conceals strategic and economic objectives and gives Ankara increasing influence in a fragile country.
It increases internal divisions instead of promoting stability.
Reevaluate relationships
Puntland’s criticisms reflect a wider debate within Somalia about the nature of external partnerships
and the limits of the role that regional and international powers should play.
Puntland’s criticisms reflect a wider debate within Somalia about the nature of external partnerships
and the limits of the role that regional and international powers should play.
