Puntland Lawmakers Question Salary Delays Despite $300 Million Budget

 Puntland Lawmakers Question Salary Delays Despite $300 Million Budget

Growing tensions have emerged inside the Puntland State Parliament after several lawmakers raised serious concerns about why civil servants have been paid for only three months since the start of the year, even though the parliament approved a 2026 budget worth more than $300 million.

During an intense debate in Garowe, MPs described the situation as unacceptable, arguing that it reflects badly on the state’s governance. They questioned how a budget passed every year fails to fully deliver on its core obligations, especially the salaries of government employees and members of the security forces.

Lawmakers insisted that the Ministry of Finance should provide a full, transparent explanation of how operational funds were spent. They also pointed out that the government had previously stated that the expenses of ongoing military operations were already included in the general budget, raising further questions about the cash shortfall.

According to the Parliamentary Finance Committee, the administration has promised significant improvements next year in paying civil servants and soldiers. They added that state revenue has increased due to the adoption of a new tax system, suggesting that structural reforms may ease financial pressure going forward.

President Said Abdullahi Deni continues to face heavy criticism for inconsistent salary payments, especially from security personnel who rely on regular income while serving in difficult and dangerous environments.

The challenges come as Puntland remains involved in military operations against ISIS in the Bari mountains while simultaneously navigating a tense political standoff with the Federal Government of Somalia. On top of that, Puntland officials report a 60% reduction in funding from the UN and international organizations, part of a broader decline in global aid to Somalia.

The combination of reduced external support, ongoing military expenses, and internal political friction has placed Puntland’s financial management under intense scrutiny, making transparency and timely salary payments key priorities for the coming year.

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