By Jama Feyte, Journalist and Horn of Africa Analyst
Recent reports indicate the Somali Federal Government is allegedly planning to deploy Haramacad militia units to the Sanaag region. This development has raised significant concerns and sparked fears of renewed conflict in parts of eastern Somaliland.
According to reliable sources, President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud is pursuing this plan as part of a strategy involving members of his administration and local politicians from the region. These actors are reportedly mobilizing communities to create unrest and instability.
The reports further allege that politicians close to the President are attempting to incite rebellion among Warsangeli clan youth, promising support from Villa Somalia (the Somali presidency).
The current military maneuvers are being led by Danish citizen Mr Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril and currently based in Birmingham, UK s previously served as an MP in Puntland State of Somalia.
Mr. Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril is currently working in cohorts with senior members of the Federal government of Somalia in a bid to destabilize the otherwise peaceful Sanaag region.
Additionally, Puntland President Said Deni has publicly denounced the situation. However, questions remain about the depth of relations between Villa Somalia and Garowe (Puntland’s capital), amid suspicions of an effort to embroil Somaliland in a new clan-based conflict to destabilize the region.
Recommended Actions for the Somaliland Government:
1. Urgent Diplomacy: Immediately engage the international community – specifically IGAD, the African Union, and the United Nations – to pressure Somalia to cease hostilities in Sanaag.
2. Community Engagement: Proactively collaborate with traditional elders and local communities to strengthen unity and prevent conflicts that could be exploited.
3. Military Preparedness: Place security forces on high alert, particularly around Badhan, Dhahar, and Ceerigaabo, reinforcing border security to counter potential threats.
4. Activity Monitoring: Diligently monitor political and military activities being organized within Somalia targeting Somaliland.
