(05-03-23) Garoe, Somalia – The situation in Las Anod, the capital of Sool region in Somalia, has been fraught with tension and conflict in recent weeks. However, local intellectuals have now begun efforts to calm the war tension in the city.
Garad Mukhtaar, one of these intellectuals, has made a statement declaring that he will not enter into any talks with Somaliland until it withdraws its forces from the SSC regions. He has accused the Somaliland military of committing a massacre in the city of Lasanood, and as such, is against their presence in the region.
Mukhtaar also added that if Somaliland is serious about dialogue, they must implement the conditions put forward by the SSC regions. He has further stated that the SSC regions will implement a ceasefire if Somaliland shows a genuine willingness to engage in dialogue.
This statement comes at a time when the situation in Lasanood has begun to feel more peaceful after three weeks of heavy fighting. The issue of Lasanood city has become urgent, prompting the Ethiopian government to intervene and send a delegation to Somaliland. This delegation is currently conducting mediation efforts in Hargeisa and Garowe to bring the two sides together.
The situation in Lasanood remains difficult, but the efforts of local intellectuals and the intervention of the Ethiopian government provide hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Guardian will continue to monitor the situation in Lasanood and provide updates as they become available.
