LAASCAANOOD (KAAB TV) – The Laascaanood-based SSC-Khatumo council held a momentous election on Saturday, appointing key leaders who are steadfast in their commitment to liberate the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn region from Somaliland’s grasp.
In an impressive gathering, 45-member committee assembled by SSC-Khatumo’s venerable traditional elders just last month, deliberated and cast their votes to select the future leaders of the political and administrative council in the coming two years.
The mantle of leadership was conferred upon Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, a 51-year-old astute businessman widely known as Firdhiye, who emerged as the President of the SSC-Khatumo Administrative Council. His capable deputy, Mohamed Abdi Ismail (Shiine) was elected to support the cause alongside him.
Exhibiting a remarkable show of support, Abdiqadir Firdhiye secured an impressive 30 out of the 45 total votes, a resounding affirmation of his leadership.
Both Abdiqadir Firdhiye and Shiine hold deep local roots and have been active participants in their community’s valiant resistance against Somaliland’s encroachments upon the region.
In his inaugural address following the election, Abdiqadir Firdhiye resolutely pledged that the council, under his guidance, would perpetuate the struggle against Somaliland’s presence, with the overarching goal of completely liberating the region from what he referred to as the “Laascaanood invasion.”
Central to their vision is the establishment of a new federal state within Somalia, a strong counterpoint to Somaliland’s separatist aspirations that stand at odds with the broader unity of the nation.
SSC-Khatumo, which initially took shape as an armed resistance movement in Laascaanood, has now embraced a transformative political trajectory, solidifying its structure with both an administrative and political council.
The recently formed 45-member committee, assembled just last month, is steadfast in its mission to build a resilient administration within the federal framework of Somalia, underscoring their dedication to the nation’s unity and stability.
Despite their resolute vision, Laascaanood has remained the backdrop of a protracted conflict since February, witnessing a relentless struggle between SSC-Khatumo fighters, bolstered by Puntland clan militia, and Somaliland forces.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with hundreds losing their lives and approximately 200,000 individuals being uprooted from their homes, as reported by aid organizations on the ground.