Somaliland’s Sool region education commissioner, Dahir Mohamed Ahmed, joined the SCC-Khatumo movement on Wednesday.
Traditional elders, including Las Anod Mayor Abdihakin Ali Ismail and military officers, warmly welcomed Ahmed in Las Anod. He pledged to participate in the struggle of the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn people to reunify with the federal government.
“I have returned to my region. Thank you for the warm welcome. I will participate in the struggle to liberate the region,” Ahmed stated.
Mayor Abdihakim Ali Ismael encouraged the commissioner to join the fight against Somaliland’s government, accusing it of committing atrocities against civilians and regions.
“Welcome to the divided students you have led. One part suffered under the Somali administration, another part was eradicated, and the third part stood to defend their regions. Today, those welcoming you are the students who stand to fight against Somaliland,” Ismael said.
The mayor also reaffirmed that the SCC-Khatumo forces would coordinate efforts to end the conflict with Somaliland.
Recently, a military commander from Somaliland and an undisclosed number of defectors joined the SCC-Khatumo troops in the Sool region. Abdi Madobe, an SCC-Khatumo commander, expressed appreciation to the defected commander and his troops for collaborating with local forces.
Territorial disputes and political differences between Somaliland and the SCC-Khatumo militia have heightened tensions in Las Anod. Since the SCC announced on February 5 that they no longer recognize the Somaliland Administration, heavy fighting has persisted.
