Garowe(Mogadishu24)-The Puntland State has on Thursday expressed disappointment with the communique issued by the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, labeling it as “unfortunate” and warning of potential national instability.

Puntland emphasized that it had previously cautioned against the uncertainty arising from the NCC’s unilateral decisions on national issues, especially those related to constitutional processes and governance.

In a statement issued by the Puntland State Council, the government voiced support for the joint decision made on October 30 by Puntland’s representatives in Somalia’s bicameral federal parliament.

The council also endorsed Jubaland’s stance on conducting separate levels of elections within its jurisdiction, affirming that this approach aligns with the constitutional mandate of Jubaland to oversee regional electoral processes without federal interference.

The NCC’s communique has drawn significant backlash, with opposition from both Puntland and Jubaland, as well as criticism from political analysts and scholars who argue that the federal government’s approach lacks inclusivity.

Puntland reaffirmed its commitment to a constitutional framework for state-building that respects regional autonomy and called on the Federal Government of Somalia to adhere to the legal processes agreed upon in previous consultations.

This response underscores the growing rift between the federal government and regional states, as Puntland and Jubaland continue to push for greater regional authority and reject what they view as federal overreach in governance and electoral matters.