MOGADISHU (SD) – The Somaliland government has described as “baseless” allegations made by officials from the Puntland administration, who have on multiple occasions accused Somaliland of supporting terrorist groups.

These allegations, which the government did not directly attribute to specific individuals but have been repeatedly raised by Puntland lawmakers, were dismissed by Somaliland as unfounded and lacking any evidence.

A statement from the Ministry of Information emphasized that Somaliland is committed to combating terrorism, as mandated by its constitution. Therefore, the accusations from Puntland officials are without merit.

“The recent baseless and suspicious accusations, driven by hidden malice, repeatedly made by officials from the Puntland regional administration of Somalia, accusing Somaliland of actions it has never engaged in, are nothing but ’empty rhetoric,'” the statement read.

Officials from the Puntland administration and other prominent figures have accused Somaliland of supporting terrorist groups. This follows reports that some individuals originally from Somaliland, but opposed to its independence, have joined the Al-Shabaab group. Somaliland has been one of the regions most affected by terrorist attacks in recent years. On October 29, 2008, terrorist attacks claimed by Al-Shabaab targeted the Somaliland Presidential Palace, the Ethiopian diplomatic office, and the UNDP office, resulting in 30 deaths and 30 injuries.

Over the past 30 years, terrorist attacks aimed at killing various individuals have targeted foreigners working in Somaliland and other civilians. Many attacks have been thwarted, and Somaliland has established specialized forces to combat terrorism and maintain its security.