Sunday June 9, 2024
Hargeisa (HOL) — President Muse Bihi Abdi of the breakaway Somaliland Republic has announced that members of the Gaanlibah Movement, who killed more than ten police officers in an August 11, 2023, attack, will face trial.
In his annual address to parliament, President Bihi attributed the defeat of Somaliland's forces to the actions of the Gaanlibah Movement. He emphasized the necessity of prosecuting those involved in the killings to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
"During national defence efforts, a conspiracy took place on August 11 at Mount Gaanlibah, where national forces defending the country day and night were killed," President Bihi said. "Accidents happen, and criminals can conspire. As a nation, we are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice. Anyone who has committed a crime against the nation must be held accountable."
President Bihi also criticized the Waddani party for not accepting the 2017 election results, suggesting that this allowed Somaliland's enemies to exploit their grievances.
Despite the Ministry of Internal Affairs previously granting amnesty to members of the Mount Gaanlibah Front, President Bihi confirmed those responsible for the attack will now face trial.