MOGADISHU– Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo have called for dialogue among the political actors in Puntland State following deadly clashes witnessed in the capital Garowe on Tuesday.
In separate statements carried on their Social media platforms, the two appealed to safeguard and protect their stability and peace through peaceful and amicable resolution to the ongoing feud in the region.
They conveyed their condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in the skirmishes whilst praying for quick recovery for those who sustained injuries in the confrontation between two rival forces.
“The Somali people cannot withstand with armed clashes at this time in region synonymous with peace and stability.” said President Mohamud.
On his part, the Ex- President Farmaajo said he placed his faith in the people of Puntland State to restore peace swiftly, bolster their government and avoid anything that will put the region in disarray.
“Garowe town is symbolic for peace and stability. It is unfortunate that the conflict in the town can be resolved through dialogue.” said Farmaajo.
Moreover, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre also weighed in to the matter urging for immediate ceasefire to the conflict and give way for dialogue to take place.
The call by the leaders comes in the wake of conflict pitting between regional government soldiers and troops loyal to opposition who are against alleged term extension by the State President Said Abdullahi Deni.
Over 10 people including the commander of Puntland’s presidential guard Abdifatah Warsame Rooti were killed and scores of others injured in the fighting as Puntland State regional convened meeting to amend the constitution that could pave way for more political parties.
Amid the heavy clashes, lawmakers voted for the changes. 34 out of the 35 MPs present votes in favour of the motion while the remaining one voted against the conditional amendment.
According to the constitution, Puntland State leaders can serve a maximum of two terms of five years.
The current president, Said Abdullahi Deni’s tenure is expected to lapse in January next year.
