Hargeisa (Somalistandard) – Somaliland President Muse Bihi has laid out a new precondition for achieving peace in the restive eastern Sool region, where his troops are engaged in fighting tribal militias that declared succession from Somaliland and reunion with Somalia.
Speaking during a meeting with representatives from the international community on Saturday evening, Mr. Bihi emphasized that peace can only be achieved if Puntland forces withdraw from the region and the rebellious region reunites with Somaliland.
President Bihi accused Puntland, an autonomous region in northern Somalia, of attempting to erode clan boundaries and stoke divisions in the region.
He alleged that Puntland was providing support to SSC-Khatumo, a secessionist group that is fighting against Somaliland, and stated that Puntland forces were actively engaged in combat alongside SSC.
The Sool region has long been a contentious area between Somaliland and Puntland, with both sides claiming ownership. The dispute has resulted in sporadic violence and instability in the region in the past, hampering efforts towards peace and reconciliation.
President Bihi’s latest remarks come amid renewed tensions between Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo.
His demand for the withdrawal of Puntland forces from Sool as a precondition for peace is likely to further exacerbate the already tense situation in the region.
The international community has been actively involved in efforts to mediate between the two sides as part of a series of initiatives to find a peaceful resolution to the month-long bloody conflict in Laasaanod town.
The situation in eastern Sool region remains volatile, with clashes between Somaliland forces and tribal militias continuing.
The region is also facing humanitarian challenges, with thousands of people displaced due to the conflict.
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