(07/11/23) GAROWE – The Puntland Non-State Actors’ Association (PUNSAA) in a strongly worded statement, condemned Tuesday’s riots in Garowe city, labelling the events as preventable tragedies that claimed lives unnecessarily. The association emphasised that actions compromising the security and welfare of citizens must be proactively averted.
“The loss of life in Puntland is both ugly and irresponsible, occurring in circumstances that could have been circumvented,” said the statement from PUNSAA. The group highlighted the need for heightened measures to ensure public safety and avoid such occurrences.
PUNSAA has issued a stern warning against any further violations in Garowe, demanding the identification and accountability of those responsible for the recent security breaches. “The incidents in Garowe, the capital of Puntland, are inexcusable,” the statement continued. The Civil Society Alliance stressed the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of the populace, insisting on accountability for those behind these egregious acts.
The association appealed for an end to all activities that could escalate insecurity, notably the misuse of power, incitement through hate speech, and the inappropriate use of social media platforms. PUNSAA also extended its condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The clash in central Garowe, the capital of Puntland, reportedly resulted from an altercation between forces loyal to the Puntland administration and opposition factions opposing President Said Deni. The disturbance was triggered by an attack on government forces escorting Captain Ayub, a Somali YouTuber from Germany, in Garowe’s main square.
According to Halqabsi News, the confrontation led to one death and several injuries, including a police officer tasked with escorting Captain Ayub. This incident marks a significant escalation in tensions within Puntland, stirring calls for peace and restraint from various sectors.
Halqabsi News