BORAMA, Somalia — A tense battle prevailed in the northwestern city of Borama on Friday after more than 48 hours of violent clashes between Somaliland security forces and protesters opposing a planned cultural book event, residents said.
The unrest erupted after sections of the Awdal community rejected a government-backed ceremony to launch a book documenting the Xeer of the Issa clan, a move they viewed as politically provocative amid longstanding clan sensitivities in the region.
Demonstrations that swept through Borama for two consecutive days turned deadly when security forces opened fire on crowds, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries, according to eyewitnesses. No official casualty figures have been released.
Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” addressed the nation late Saturday, condemning the violence and ordering security forces to withdraw from the city in an effort to defuse tensions.
“The situation in Borama is deeply troubling,” he said, calling for calm and urging authorities to restore order through restraint rather than force.
Local elders and civil society groups have demanded an independent investigation into the killings, warning that the crisis risks escalating if the government does not address community grievances.
The latest unrest adds to growing pressure on President Irro’s administration, which has faced rising political and clan tensions since taking office.
