Garowe(Mogadishu24)-The Puntland State has on Wednesday declared August 1st a national holiday, instructing local and international organizations to grant leave to their staff on Thursday. This date marks the 26th anniversary of Puntland’s establishment on August 1, 1998.

In a statement issued today, the Ministry of Labour congratulated the people of Puntland in advance, celebrating their state’s foundation. Puntland is often referred to as the “mother of Federalism” as it was the first autonomous region in Somalia, with other federal member states established after 2016 during President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s first term.

The announcement comes on the heels of successful local council elections held in three districts of Puntland. Despite ongoing political conflicts with the Federal Government of Somalia, the region remains stable and peaceful.

This national holiday serves as a reminder of Puntland’s significant role in Somalia’s federal structure and its commitment to maintaining stability and governance within the region.