HARGEISA (Kaab TV) – The Somaliland Minister of Information, Ahmed Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayanle, has announced his resignation after a decision he publicly read on Thursday—allowing the Xeer Ciise ceremony—led to violent unrest in Borama that resulted in multiple deaths.
Minister Ayanle, who had not appeared in the media during the two days of protests in Borama, said the President had assigned him to announce the difficult decision permitting the Xeer Ciise ceremony. He added that the President later presented the calming, conciliatory statement as if it were his own, effectively becoming both spokesperson and decision-maker.
“I cannot shoulder, as Ahmed Yasin, the burden of announcing a harsh decision that sparks conflict for my own clan and region, while the softer message that soothes the community is attributed to the President,” the minister said.
He described the President as an honorable man who had given him the opportunity to serve, and he expressed gratitude for their working relationship. He added that he visited the President today to tender his resignation in writing, which was accepted, and the two parted with prayers for each other.
“I pray for Somaliland, and I thank the people for the support they showed me during my time in office,” he said.
The minister also delivered a special message to the people of Awdal region, urging them to preserve peace and avoid entering a conflict whose end they cannot foresee. He advised the Awdal community not to fall into divisions with neighboring groups.
“Today, we are at a good point. You have the right to reject what you oppose, but please avoid actions that will not bring us any good—actions that enemies might exploit or that could stain our history. This is my advice as one of your own,” he added.
The situation in Borama has calmed this evening after the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, suspended the Xeer Ciise ceremony. It has been agreed that a peace dialogue will be held on the 10th of this month.
However, the Ciise community has expressed anger at the government’s latest decision, insisting that the ceremony must be allowed to proceed.