Ineffective Leadership and the Challenges of Bad Governance: A Case Study in the Puntland State of Somalia

This study investigates the impact of ineffective leadership on governance in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Somalia. Established in 1998, Puntland has grappled with challenges of political instability, corruption, weak institutions, and tribal tensions that impede effective governance. The study utilized a case study design, capturing responses from a demographically diverse sample of Puntland residents to assess leadership effectiveness, governance quality, and public sentiment regarding governance structures. Results reveal a predominant dissatisfaction with leadership, with 45.2% of respondents deeming the current leadership ineffective, largely due to corruption and lack of accountability. Governance issues manifest in limited public service access and human rights concerns, with 45.2% of respondents attributing the primary challenge to corruption. Despite some positive views on governance quality, nearly half of respondents feel excluded from meaningful participation in decision-making processes. The study highlights transparency and accountability as the most valued leadership qualities, with a preference for reforms that enhance public involvement and accountability measures. Respondents recommend strengthening accountability mechanisms (40.3%) and increasing citizen participation in governance (24.2%) to improve leadership effectiveness. Citizens emphasize the importance of electoral participation, advocacy for transparency, and public education to promote better governance. The findings suggest that addressing transparency deficits, promoting inclusive governance, and empowering citizens are essential to overcoming Puntland’s governance challenges. Such reforms could facilitate a governance model that aligns with public expectations and enhances leadership effectiveness, thereby contributing to Puntland’s development and stability.