MOGADISHU (SMN) – The former Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has issued a statement regarding the war in LasAnod which claimed the lives of hundreds of people.
Ahmed who served as the 7th leader of the Horn of Africa country urged the Somaliland administration and the rival SSC-Khatumo forces to exercise restraint and open dialogue.
On the other hand, the ex-president has accused the Federal Government of Somalia of falling short of its role in resolving the conflict in LasAnod, which is underway for 8 months.
“The Somali government has to take its role towards the cession of the hostilities and push both sides to reach a peace deal that will end the bloodshed and save the lives,” he added.
His remarks come days after SSC-Khatumo said Friday that it had seized Goojacade, a major base near LasAnod city, belonging to the Somaliland army following a fierce battle.
After the takeover, Somaliland’s defence ministry said its troops had vacated positions to the east of the Sool region, but said its army was reorganizing and preparing a counter-attack.
LasAnod fighting started in February this year after traditional clan leaders in the contested town pledged to form a new regional state and urged the breakaway Somaliland authorities to withdraw their troops.
Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions are now part of the SSC-Khaatumo state, which has also declared itself autonomous. The Dhulbahante also claim Las Anod as their capital.
