Sunday August 6, 2023
Las Anod (HOL) - The SCC-Khatumo delegates have elected Abdukhadir Ahmed Aw-Ali (Firdhiye) as the leader of SCC-Khatumo, and Dr. Mohamed Abdi Ismael as his deputy.
The election was held in Las Anod town on Saturday, with 45 members of the SCC-Khatumo Council participating in the voting process. Abdukhadir Ahmed received 30 votes, while Dr. Mohamed garnered 15 votes.
The newly elected leaders have committed to prioritize the unity of the people of SSC-Khatumo and continue the struggle for the liberation of Sool from the Somaliland army.
Garaad Mukhtaar Garaad Cali Buraale described the election as a democratic achievement and expressed gratitude, saying, "Alxamdulilaah, all praise to Allah and those who helped us on this journey. Congratulations to Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, who has been elected as the leader for SSC-Khatumo, and his deputy. We wish and pray for their leadership to guide us through the next phase of this journey, IA."
The new leadership is expected to assume the leading of the entire administration of Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn (collectively known as SCC). Previously, this responsibility was held by traditional elders, whose role has now concluded.
Since February 6, there has been heavy fighting in the northern Somali city of Las Anod between troops of Somalia's breakaway region of Somaliland and local militia from the Dhulbahante clan in northern Somalia.
Last month, the United Nations Security Council expressed concern over the ongoing violence in Las Anod, located in the Sool region of northern Somalia. The conflict has resulted in numerous civilian casualties and displaced over 150,000 people.
The Council urgently called on all parties involved to reach a cease-fire agreement and encouraged inclusive dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution. The UN Assistance Mission in Somalia was also requested to provide further support.