By Jama Feyte , Journalist and Horn of Africa Analyst
Military clashes have erupted between forces belonging to Puntland and troops led by the former Speaker of the Puntland Parliament.
The clashes are occurring in the Sanaag region, specifically in the village of Ceelbuh, pitting forces loyal to Puntland against those commanded by the former Speaker of the Puntland Parliament, Mr. Abdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil.
Mr. Abdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil is said to be financed and armed by President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud is pursuing this plan as part of a strategy involving members of his administration and local politicians from the region
Reliable sources report that confrontations took place there, resulting in civilian deaths and injuries. Puntland forces were reportedly dispatched to the area to prevent a controversial meeting planned to take place in the Ceelbuh area.
As is understood, Puntland sent troops to the area to prevent politicians linked to the Federal Government of Somalia, who are accused of efforts to incorporate the Sanaag region into the SSC-Khaatumo administration.
There are strong fears that full-scale fighting could break out between the two forces stationed there, with Abdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil, the former Speaker of the Puntland Parliament, currently present at the location.
Mr. Abdirashiid Yusuf Jibril , who holds Danish citizensgip is among the prominent politicians leading the campaign for Sanaag to become part of the SSC-Khaatumo administration.
Recently, the President and Vice President of Puntland accused the Federal Government of Somalia of political interference and creating chaos in the Sanaag region by using politicians originating from the region.
On the other hand, traditional elders and dignitaries of the Sanaag region have initiated peace efforts. They specifically objected to the controversial meeting planned for Ceelbuh, aiming to prevent the escalation of the conflict.
