Hargeysa January 30, 2023 (SD) – The outgoing President of Somaliland Muse Biixi Cabdi today at the Presidential Palace spoke about the situation in Laascaanood, in the Sool region, possibly adding fuel to the conflict brewing in that region.

He accused an unnamed terrorist group of being behind the unrest in Laascaanood and called on the people of Sool to strengthen peace. He stated that the government will bring to justice those responsible for killing Laascaanood intellectuals.

The president also said that the army will not leave Sool and will ensure security. On the other hand, he expressed positive feelings about the meeting of the tribal leaders taking place in Laascaanood, saying that it will not be different from previous meetings aimed at preventing unrest.

The president’s speech comes as the Council of Elders of the Sool, Sanaag, and Ceyn regions, are meeting in Laascaanood. It is expected that decisions will be made about the presence of Somaliland in the SSC regions.

In addition, a statement from the Somaliland Ministry of Information has banned media and journalists operating in Somaliland from broadcasting news and reports on the situation in the city of Laascaanood.

The ban comes as the SSC Traditional leaders are to conclude their summit in Laascaanood and are expected to oppose Somaliland’s return to Laascaanood.