Hargeisa August 13, 2023 (SD) – The outgoing President of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi, addressed the nation today regarding the incident where 9 police officers were killed in a recent battle that took place in the suburb of Go’da yar near Hargeisa. He stated that the nation mourns the loss and emphasized that the country will not tolerate anyone who unlawfully targets security forces.

The conflict between the Gacan-Libaax militia and government forces escalated this week further, resulting in significant casualties. The militia is seen as a challenge to President Bihi’s leadership, as his term expired last November and refused to hold Presidential elections.

The President, speaking after the funeral of the slayed policemen, acknowledged that Somaliland faces numerous challenges and significant threats. He expressed his condolences for the loss of lives and highlighted that despite the adversities, Somaliland remains resilient.

The president did not propose solutions to the conflict, but rather fan the flames of further conflict with the Garhajis fighters, now in multiple regions in Somaliland.

The embattled outgoing President also ignored efforts by traditional leaders to mediate between his government and the rebels.

Since assuming office, President Muse Bihi Abdi has been the center of internal conflicts and political turbulence that have shaken the stability of the country.