Sunday July 6, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s Ministry of Interior and
Reconciliation Affairs on Saturday appointed an eight-member technical
committee tasked with finalizing the formation of the interim SSC-Khaatumo
regional administration.
The move comes months after the federal government
officially recognized SSC-Khaatumo as a federal member state, following intense
fighting and political realignments in northern Somalia.
In a statement, the ministry said the committee will oversee
the establishment of a regional administration in line with constitutional
processes and the national reconciliation framework.
Dr. Ahmednur Mohamed Abdi was appointed as chair of the
committee, with Abdinasir Haji Mohamed serving as deputy chair. Other members
include individuals with roots in the Sanaag region—a move seen by observers as
the federal government’s signal that it views Sanaag as part of the emerging
SSC-Khaatumo entity.
The formation of SSC-Khaatumo followed nearly a year of
armed conflict between local forces and Somaliland troops. After a series of
community meetings in Las Anod, traditional elders and regional leaders from
Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn declared their decision to withdraw from Somaliland and
establish an autonomous administration.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre formally recognized
SSC-Khaatumo as a federal member state two months ago during a landmark visit
to Las Anod. The visit marked a pivotal moment, symbolizing the federal
government's endorsement of the new administration, which has since
consolidated control over the three regions.
The appointment of the committee is expected to accelerate
institutional development and governance efforts in the newly recognized
regional state.