(13-06-23) MOGADISHU — On Tuesday, the Eelay Tribe of South West Somalia issued a pressing call to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia, urging him to enforce the implementation of the agreement struck on 4th February 2023 in Baidoa. The tribe underscored the agreement’s significance, citing the presence of both the President and the Speaker of the Federal Parliament, Sheikh Adan Madobe, at the time of the agreement.
This call was made during a meeting convened on Tuesday in Mogadishu, attended by prominent members of the Eelay Tribe, encompassing politicians, elders, and intellectuals from both federal and state levels. The meeting took place at the residence of former parliamentary speaker, Prof. Mohamed Sheikh Osman Jawari.
The assembly affirmed its undivided support for Sheikh Mustaf Ali Mohamed as the solitary Malaaq (Leader), representing the entirety of the Eelay community and its three branches. They called upon the South West State administration to refrain from disrupting the Eelay community and to respect their rights to independent decision-making.
Meanwhile, the assembly voiced concerns over the South West State government’s handling of the Burhakaba local government council. They criticised the government’s deviation from established local government formation processes as an infringement on citizens’ rights and a breach of cultural norms.
Adding to the call for peace and unity, the meeting condemned actions contributing to discord within the community and demanded an immediate cessation of such behaviours that risk harming the Eelay tribe.
In a strong stance on democratic values, the assembly demanded the immediate release of Dhayow Ibrahim Adan, the captive South West State presidential candidate, highlighting the tribe’s commitment to political fairness and freedom.
The assembly also raised concerns about ongoing land seizures and forced displacements in the Boonkay area, urging the South West State government to halt these practices immediately.
Finally, the Eelay Tribe extended an urgent plea to both the Federal Government of Somalia and the South West State Government, urging them to cooperate with traditional elders in restoring peace in the violence-stricken Barawe district.
The statement follows a recent surge in violent confrontations in the district, leading to significant loss of life and numerous casualties. The Eelay Tribe’s plea emphasizes the urgent need for political cooperation and peaceful resolution amidst escalating tensions and conflict in the South West State of Somalia.
