The Former Presidents Riyale and Bihi Urge Immediate De-escalation in Awdal-Saal Dispute
In a significant joint intervention, two former Presidents of Somaliland, H.E. Dahir Riyale Kahin and H.E. Muse Bihi Abdi, have issued a urgent call for peace and an immediate end to rising tensions between communities in the Awdal and neighboring Saal regions.
The former leaders, currently in the United Arab Emirates, disclosed that they have held direct consultations with the incumbent President, H.E. Abdirahman Irro, concerning the crisis. They confirmed that President Irro has agreed to review and reverse the contentious administrative decisions that initially sparked the unrest.
Addressing the situation directly, former President Riyale made a specific appeal for calm to the youth of Awdal. “I am appealing to the youth of Awdal to stop the violence and listen to their elders,” he stated, urging them to follow the guidance of traditional leaders and community intellectuals.
The former presidents also noted they have reached out to the paramount Sultan of the Ciise clan to bolster efforts for reconciliation and reinforce brotherhood between the two communities.
Echoing the call for dialogue, former President Muse Bihi Abdi urged residents in Awdal to engage constructively with a peace delegation presently in the region. He reminded them of Somaliland’s longstanding tradition of respectful dialogue. “People of Awdal, your peace delegations have been heard and respected many times before. Today, it is time to listen to the peace delegation,” Bihi emphasized, underscoring the necessity for wisdom and peaceful resolution.
Local sources indicate that the intervention by the influential former heads of state has been positively received in Awdal, raising hopes for a swift de-escalation and a return to stability in the region.
