ERIGAVO (SD) – The Somaliland government has sent a high-level delegation to the city of Erigavo to establish a ceasefire and integrate local militia forces operating in the Sanag, Sool, and Togdheer regions.

The delegation, led by the Vice President of Somaliland, Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, includes senior military officials and government representatives. They are tasked with formally mediating a ceasefire among the clans residing in the city.

“We have come to restore peace, and everyone is responsible. We hope Allah will guide us and make this trip a memorable one for the return of peace to Erigavo,” said the Vice President.

He also announced plans to integrate local militias, which consist of clan-based armed groups that have fueled tensions and conflicts in these regions.

“The national armed forces are generally responsible for the security of the people. We have come to ensure that anyone carrying a weapon becomes part of the formal forces and is integrated,” the Vice President added.

The President of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, stated that while the Somaliland forces are responsible for the security of Erigavo, they prefer to resolve conflicts through dialogue. He emphasized that his government prioritizes peace. Over 40,000 families have fled Erigavo following clashes between Somaliland forces and SSC-Khatumo militias.

On the other hand, some traditional leaders from the Sool and Sanag regions have called for resistance against Somaliland. Additionally, the leader of the SSC-Khatumo administration, Abdikadir Aw Ali Firdhiye, recently announced a planned offensive to capture Erigavo, accusing Somaliland of oppressing the local population.