FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Statement on the current situation in Laas-Anod, Somaliland HARGEISA, SOMALILAND DECEMBER 31, 2022
The Government of the Republic of Somaliland is deeply concerned about the current situation in the city of Laas-Anod and the erroneous statements regarding the issue.
In the last decade, there have been preplanned, premeditated, and coordinated successive assassinations against prominent Somaliland officials in Laas-Anod. These officials included Senior Judiciary members from the region, members of the national security agencies and regional administrators. Over the years, joint efforts by Somaliland security forces and intelligence agencies have identified that individuals responsible for the targeted assassinations were carried out by members of Al-Shabaab terrorist group. The murder of former Somaliland parliamentary candidate, Abdifatah Abdilahi Abdi, on December 28th, 2022, has perpetuated demonstrations that have led to the loss of lives, as well as the subsequent destruction of properties and businesses. Some of these criminals have already been convicted, while others are under investigation and await trial.
The Government of Somaliland strongly opposes the claims by the so-called Federal Republic of Somalia, in particular Puntland, who continue to share misinformation that incites violence within the eastern border of Somaliland. The false statements regarding the current situation in Laas- Anod threaten the safety and stability of the entire region. As the government continues to engage in efforts that eradicate terrorism and extremist ideologies in the region, Somaliland will not tolerate any threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Republic of Somaliland has witnessed major milestones, most notably the inclusion of Somaliland within the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) by the United States Government; the development project of the Berbera Port by the UAE and the oil drilling agreements with Genel Energy and CPC of Taiwan. These achievements greatly contribute to the development and democratic governance of Somaliland and the region at large. However, these provocations by neighboring administrations along with extremist activities have motivated the current unrest in Laas-Anod.
The Government of Somaliland is committed to ensuring the security and wellbeing of its citizens and will take all necessary steps to guarantee stability in all regions of the country.
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