Lasanod, Somalia – A high-ranking delegation from the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has arrived in the northern town of Lasanod, Sool region, as tensions simmer between the FGS and the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, which has recently threatened a new offensive to retake the strategically important town.
The delegation, consisting of cabinet members and parliamentarians, was led by Abdullahi Timade, the First Deputy Speaker of the Upper House, and Jama Khalif, the Minister of Post and Telecommunications. Their visit was met with a warm reception from the authorities in control of the town, representing the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn (SSC) region.
The purpose of the delegation’s visit to Lasanod was to engage in discussions with the SSC-Khatumo Administration and local traditional elders. These conversations revolved around the current situation in Lasanod, which had been seized from Somaliland’s administration.
Additionally, the delegation toured neighborhoods in Lasanod that have suffered extensive damage due to shelling by Somaliland forces over the past months. The SSC-Khatumo forces have been engaged in various battles in Lasanod and its surrounding areas against the Somaliland Administration, resulting in casualties and displacements.
The visit of the FGS delegation to Lasanod comes in the wake of Somaliland’s recent threats to launch a new offensive against SSC authorities. Somaliland alleges that SSC has been harboring dozens of Al-Shabaab fighters, including a senior militant leader, a claim that SSC has categorically denied.
The delegation’s arrival highlights the ongoing tensions and territorial disputes between the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland. SSC-Khatumo’s administration has managed to endure the eight-month-long shelling of Lasanod by Somaliland forces, ultimately declaring its administration of the area.
The visit also underscores the determination of the people of Sool to protect their peace and determine their destiny, while emphasizing the region’s commitment to being free from terrorism. The presence of the FGS delegation reflects a broader effort to address the complex political and security dynamics in the region and seek a peaceful resolution to the longstanding issues between the Federal Government and Somaliland.
