The Puntland Non-State Actors Association (PUNSAA) has issued a sharp critique of the process behind the recent parliamentary approval of amendments to Somalia’s constitution, calling it opaque, exclusionary, and a potential threat to national unity.
In an open letter addressed to the highest levels of Somali government and the international community, the prominent civil society network—which coordinates over 120 organizations—stated it was completely sidelined during the critical deliberations.
Key Criticisms Outlined
The statement centers on amendments to the 4th Chapter of Somalia’s Provisional Constitution, passed by the Federal Parliament today. PUNSAA asserts the process “lacked proper procedure and transparency” and was finalized “without the consultation and unanimous consent of all Federal Member States.”
Furthermore, the association challenges the claim by the Independent Constitutional Review and Implementation Commission (ICRIC) of having consulted civil society. “PUNSAA…was not once invited or shared any document throughout the debates,” the letter states, adding that any organizations that did participate do not represent the broader Somali civil society.
A Warning of National Risk
The association framed its concerns within Somalia’s fragile political context, warning that the move “could endanger the unity and cohesion of the Somali community and the long-standing efforts of Somali state-building.”
It emphasized that the amendments come at a sensitive time when the nation is grappling with political disputes that affect statehood, territorial integrity, and internal security—a likely reference to tensions between Mogadishu and Federal Member States like Puntland.
A Call for Consensus
Concluding its statement, PUNSAA made an urgent appeal to Somalia’s federal and state-level leadership to return to a collaborative path. It called for work towards “a consensual constitution that has been carefully considered from all perspectives,” arguing this is essential to complete the state-building process and achieve national reconciliation.
Background
PUNSAA is one of Somalia’s largest civil society umbrella bodies, with deep roots in the Puntland region. Its public condemnation adds a significant civil society voice to the growing political debate surrounding constitutional reforms, a process central to defining Somalia’s future federal structure and political system.
