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LAS ANOD — Efforts to resolve the protracted conflict between Somaliland and SSC Khaatumo took a step forward as traditional leaders from SSC Khaatumo met with a peace delegation from Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State in Las Anod on Saturday.
The delegation, which included respected elders and traditional leaders, conveyed a message from Somaliland’s leadership, signalling readiness for dialogue. This initiative is seen as an attempt to break the cycle of violence that has plagued the region for years.
“We are here as a peace delegation. We came from Hargeisa with the assurance that the Somaliland leadership is prepared for peace. You have also confirmed your readiness for peace,” said Garaad Kulmiye Garaad Mohamed Garaad Dool, one of SSC Khaatumo’s senior traditional leaders.
Garaad Kulmiye emphasized that the discussions in Las Anod would be reported back to Hargeisa, laying the groundwork for structured negotiations. “Both sides need to independently identify their priorities to ensure the talks are productive and address core issues,” he added.
The conflict stems from a fundamental disagreement over the status of the SSC regions. Somaliland claims the territories as part of its sovereign domain following its self-declared independence in 1991. SSC Khaatumo, however, identifies as a federal state within Somalia, maintaining allegiance to the Mogadishu-based government.
The peace delegation’s visit follows a call for dialogue by Somaliland’s newly elected president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro. In a recent statement, Irro expressed his administration’s commitment to resolving the tensions through peaceful negotiations, a significant shift from the previous government’s handling of the conflict.
SSC Khaatumo leaders have expressed cautious optimism, reiterating their commitment to peace while firmly maintaining their stance on territorial sovereignty. They urged all parties to seize this opportunity for meaningful dialogue.
The SSC regions have been a flashpoint for violence, with clashes leaving communities devastated and displaced. Efforts to mediate have repeatedly stalled, with mistrust and competing claims complicating negotiations.
Source: HOL Origin: view original
