Dhahar (Dawan) – The Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs & Reconciliation of the Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned the violence that erupted in the town of Dhahar, located in the Sanaag region, on Tuesday, and issued a call for the President of Puntland to halt military operations that are exacerbating the conflict.
The ministry extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident and wished a swift recovery to those injured.
In its statement, the ministry condemned the ongoing fighting and urged all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities and for the local community to strive for peace and stability.
“We call on all parties involved in the violence to stop immediately. We also urge the local community to embrace peace and stability,” the statement read.
A section of the statement particularly called on Puntland to reconsider its military strategy, specifically requesting that the forces sent from Qardho be recalled. "We ask the President of Puntland to cease actions that are escalating the conflict and to return the forces dispatched from Qardho, who were originally sent to fight militants but have unfortunately been redirected for other purposes," the statement emphasized.
The statement concluded with a strong call for the restoration of peace in Dhahar, stressing the urgent need to address the root causes of the violence before further harm is done.
The fighting in Dhahar has already seen Puntland accuse the government of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of orchestrating and sending armed militias to instigate conflict in the town.
The ongoing dispute highlights unresolved conflicts within Somalia's federal system. Puntland insists on controlling Sanaag, while SCC-Khaatumo claims legitimacy through federal recognition.
