GALKAYO (SD)— Tensions have increased in Galkayo following Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit, with Puntland and Galmudug deploying additional security forces around the divided city amid growing political friction between Puntland and the Federal Government.

Military and police units have reportedly been positioned in several areas of Galkayo, which is administratively divided between Puntland and Galmudug. The increased security presence comes as President Hassan Sheikh has been visiting central Somalia.

Puntland has accused the Federal Government of using the presidential visit to provoke tensions in Galkayo and undermine the security of Mudug and Puntland more broadly.

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has also held meetings with security officials and regional authorities to assess the situation and coordinate Puntland’s response.

The dispute reflects the broader deterioration in relations between Puntland and Mogadishu, particularly over questions of federal authority, security forces and the political direction of Somalia.

Galmudug has rejected Puntland’s characterization of the presidential visit, arguing that Hassan Sheikh has the right to travel within Somalia and visit Galkayo.

Former Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qorqor also called for calm, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the peaceful coexistence between the communities on both sides of the city.

Galkayo is particularly sensitive because it is divided between Puntland and Galmudug. Any significant movement of military forces can therefore quickly become a political and security issue.

The reported movement of Somali National Army forces and equipment from positions in and around Galkayo has added another layer of tension. Puntland has reportedly taken control of some federal military positions, while other federal forces moved south toward bases in Galgadud.

The immediate concern is that a political dispute between Puntland and the Federal Government could increasingly become a military confrontation on the ground.

Puntland’s decision to strengthen its forces around Galkayo suggests that the administration is treating the situation as a potential security threat rather than simply a disagreement over President Hassan Sheikh’s visit.

For Mogadishu, however, restricting or challenging the president’s movement inside Somalia could undermine the Federal Government’s claim to national authority.

The situation therefore represents a much larger dispute than a presidential visit. It reflects the unresolved question of who controls security forces, military bases and political authority in Somalia’s federal system.

Galkayo’s divided status makes the situation particularly dangerous. A confrontation there could quickly affect relations between Puntland and Galmudug and potentially trigger wider political tensions between Puntland and Mogadishu.

For now, the top priority is preventing the military buildup from escalating into armed confrontation. Dialogue between Puntland, Galmudug and the Federal Government is likely to be far more effective than allowing competing forces to establish new positions around an already sensitive city.