Mogadishu, March 19, 2025 – The Federal Government of Somalia has firmly rejected accusations made by Puntland that the National ID registration process is politically motivated or tied to election-related activities.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation, the government clarified that the National ID system is a constitutional obligation designed to give Somali citizens formal identification, enabling them to easily access essential public services.

“The National ID Card is different from the Voter ID Card – it is a national identification system and a government responsibility stated in the Constitution. Its purpose is to ensure that citizens obtain official recognition. The National ID has no political agenda,” the ministry stated.

The government further emphasized that all election-related responsibilities—including voter registration—fall under the mandate of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and not the National ID system.

The Ministry warned against the spread of false information on social media, describing such claims as misleading to the public. Citizens were encouraged to register for the ID, which the ministry confirmed is currently free of charge.

This rebuttal follows a public statement from Puntland, which on March 18, declared its refusal to participate in the National ID registration program. Puntland argued that the initiative was politically motivated, linked to unauthorized electoral processes, and posed a security and economic burden on citizens.

The current dispute adds to the growing political rift between the Federal Government and the Puntland administration, which has previously suspended formal cooperation with Mogadishu and asserted its autonomy in political and administrative affairs.