Somalia’s Deputy Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport, MP Saddam Mohamud Abdi, resigned on Tuesday, citing constitutional violations and the politicization of development projects in Puntland by the federal government. In his statement, Abdi accused the central authorities of undermining the constitutional framework and using local projects for political gain rather than regional development.

Abdi’s resignation comes amid rising political tensions and marks the third minister to leave President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration within a week. This wave of exits points to increasing discontent among officials from various regions regarding the central government’s approach to governance.

The former minister also highlighted growing instability in Jubbaland, which he attributed to interference by federal authorities. Such claims underscore broader concerns over how federalism is managed in Somalia, with federal member states like Puntland expressing frustration over perceived overreach by Mogadishu.

Political analysts view Abdi’s departure as a potential flashpoint that could further strain the already fragile relationship between the central government and regional administrations. If left unaddressed, this tension risks exacerbating challenges to national unity and governance.