Puntland hits back at claims that Deni is vying for Somalia president

Keydmedia Online has learned that Deni is seeking financial support from UAE where he is currently visiting.

News Keydmedia Online
8 July 2021

GAROWE, Somalia - Puntland state has strongly rejected what it called "baseless" accusations made by Federal Minister of planning Gamal Mohamed Hassan that its leader Said Abdullahi Deni is planning to contest for the president of Somalia.

Jama Deparani, Puntland presidency spokesman refuted the claims, saying the minister's statement is a blatant lie aimed at giving a bad image of the 23-year-old Somali Federal State, which held previously held elections at state and federal levels.

The minister has accused Deni of being a secret presidential candidate and attempting to interfere with the upcoming parliamentary elections set to begin in mid-July before he formally announces his candidacy.

“As a Presidential Candidate Said Abdullahi Deni should recuse himself from all election-related issues and immediately stop meddling in the affairs of electoral technical committees. We can no longer silently watch the blatant disregard for democratic integrity by Puntland administration,” he tweeted.

Gamal Mohamed Hassan who hails from Sanaag region within Puntland wants to retain his seat in the Lower House chamber of Somalia's 11th parliament but faced challenges from Deni who has an influence in the selection process of the parliamentary candidates.

Keydmedia Online has learned that Deni, a business tycoon is seeking financial support from UAE where he is currently visiting on a mission for his campaign that is yet to be made public.

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