(09/11/23) MOGADISHU – The United Kingdom Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, in an exclusive interview with Dalsan Television aired on Wednesday, urged for a peaceful resolution in the ongoing election dispute in Puntland. This intervention highlights the first detailed comment from the UK on the tense political situation in the Somali State.
Highlighting the conflict between Puntland government forces and opposition members in Garowe on Tuesday as “regrettable,” Nithavrianakis stressed the importance of resolving the dispute peacefully. He acknowledged the deep divisions over the election process, including disagreements on the date and manner of conducting the elections, involving President Deni, opposition groups, and clan elders.
The ambassador expressed the UK’s keen interest in the developments, voicing concerns over the potential for further escalation and disorder. He emphasised the UK’s readiness to support initiatives aimed at defusing the crisis and mentioned upcoming engagements with key Somali stakeholders to promote dialogue and restraint.
Puntland is currently grappling with heightened uncertainty due to the impasse between President Deni and the opposition, casting shadows on the State’s political stability and future.
Halqabsi News
