GAROWE (KAAB TV) – The Speaker of Somalia’s Puntland Parliament has strongly criticized the recent statement by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), which failed to denounce Somaliland’s invasion of the troubled city of Laascaanood.
Speaker Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril expressed disappointment that the leaders of IGAD neglected to acknowledge the crisis in Laascaanood, refusing to condemn the killing and displacement of civilians.
He urged Somaliland to adhere to the UN Security Council decision, which demands an immediate withdrawal of its forces from Laascaanood.
During the 52nd Sitting of the Puntland Parliament in Garowe on Thursday, Speaker Jibril emphasized Puntland’s readiness to defend the people of Laascaanood against what he described as “Somaliland’s aggressive invasion and attempt to divide the country.”
He commended the UN Security Council for its strong stance, reflected in last week’s decision calling for the immediate withdrawal of Somaliland forces from Laascaanood.
“I condemn the press conference of the IGAD Regional Organization that took place on June 14, 2023, which contradicts the Resolution of the United Nations Security Council on the actual situation in Laascaanood,” Speaker Jibril stated.
He added, “We are defending the Sool region and working to free its people from the enemy.”
The disputed city of Laascaanood has witnessed ongoing clashes since February 6, between forces in the self-declared state of Somaliland and local militia from the Dhulbahante clan in northern Somalia, who oppose Somaliland’s secessionist movement.
Laascaanood, situated in a region between Somaliland and Puntland, has become a contentious focal point, with both regions laying claim to the city.
According to information obtained from hospitals in Laascaanood, the conflict has resulted in a death toll of 299, with 1,913 injured and over 200,000 displaced since its inception.
“Unlawful” attempts to violate Somalia’s federal constitution
In his address, the Puntland Parliament Speaker also denounced the “unlawful” attempts to violate Somalia’s federal constitution by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during a recent gathering in Mogadishu.
At the meeting, the National Consultative Council, which comprises the federal government and federal member states (excluding Puntland), agreed to a declaration to amend certain provisions of the country’s provisional constitution.
“Abusing the powers of government offices and pursuing personal interests within the highest positions of the country is a responsibility that demands accountability,” Speaker Jibril asserted.
Puntland has accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of obstructing the country’s progress by attempting to extend his term, which not only erodes trust but also generates new conflicts in the fragile Horn of Africa nation.
The Speaker urged the Somali federal parliament to safeguard the constitution and the unity of the Somali nation, holding the country’s leaders accountable for violating constitutional provisions and other laws.