section_path: Actions of Puntland/Declaration of Independence by Puntland
section_name: Declaration of Independence by Puntland
paragraph_text: Declaration of Independence by Puntland
  
  On March 31, 2024, Puntland announced its withdrawal from the federal system. In an emergency meeting, the Puntland cabinet stated their intention to govern independently until the ratification of constitutional amendments proposed by the central government through a nationwide referendum. Puntland also accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of violating the constitution and losing his legitimacy.
  
  Puntland's denial resulted in concerns over the rushed nature of the amendment process and the lack of genuine public participation. Puntland's withdrawal from the federal system underscored growing discontent with the central government's approach to governance and constitutional reforms.
  
  Mohamud Aidid Dirir, Puntland minister of information, accused Mohamud of "gather authority into his hands". This is the second time Puntland has cut ties with the Mohamud administration. In January 2023, the Puntland Government announced that it was acting independently from the federal government until the completion of the constitution via referendum.
  
  On 3 April 2024, the dispute between Puntland and the federal government escalated when Puntland's minister of finance met with representatives of the Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Ministry in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to discuss trade cooperation. This meeting was not coordinated with the federal government of Somalia.