Puntland State President condemns Borama crackdown, urges talks instead of force

GAROWE, Somalia —Puntland StatePresident Said Abdullahi Deni has offered condolences to families of those killed in days of violent protests in Borama and urged dialogue after North Western State of Somalia security forces opened fire on residents demonstrating against the planned launch of the Xeer Ciise book.

“I express my condolences for the violence that occurred in Borama that resulted in deaths. It was truly an inappropriate matter. I call for a solution to be sought for everything without resorting to violence,” Deni said in remarks delivered Sunday night in Garowe.

Local authorities and community members say more than 20 people have been killed and nearly 50 others injured during unrest linked to objections over the Xeer Ciise event planned in the nearby town of Saylac. Witnesses and community leaders have accused North Western State of Somalia forces of using live gunfire to disperse demonstrators, prompting some armed residents to retaliate.

Deni’s comments come as North Western State of Somalia and Puntland State have recently signaled a renewed understanding on preserving calm, following talks in Kenya that produced a preliminary agreement focused on maintaining peace and stability. His appeal underscored growing calls to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through negotiation rather than force.

The clashes followed the North Western State of Somalia government’s decision to authorize a commemoration of Xeer Ciise, the customary law practiced by Somali-Issa communities across Ethiopia, Djibouti and Somalia. The tradition, recognized by UNESCO, holds cultural significance for Issa communities, but the decision to proceed with a book launch became a flashpoint for segments of the Borama community, culminating in deadly confrontations with security forces.

Key points from the unrest in Borama:

• Casualties: More than 20 people killed and nearly 50 injured over several days of protests and clashes.
• Trigger: Demonstrations erupted over plans to launch a Xeer Ciise book in Saylac.
• Use of force: North Western State of Somalia security forces have been accused of firing live rounds to disperse crowds; some residents responded with arms.
• Political backdrop: The violence comes as North Western State of Somalia and Puntland State delegations have sought to cool tensions after recent talks in Kenya.

Community leaders have warned that force-first responses risk deepening mistrust and inflaming local grievances. Deni’s statement reinforced that view, positioning dialogue as the path to prevent further bloodshed while broader political talks attempt to stabilize relations.

The flare-up around Xeer Ciise underscores the sensitivity of cultural and communal issues in the region. While advocates of the commemoration argue it honors a living body of customary law practiced across borders, critics in Borama objected to the timing and venue, expressing fears it could exacerbate existing strains. Those tensions, combined with heavy-handed crowd control, set the stage for a deadly escalation.

As authorities assess the damage and families bury their dead, attention now turns to whether the understanding signaled by Puntland State and North Western State of Somalia in Kenya can translate into practical steps on the ground. For residents of Borama, immediate priorities center on preventing further violence, ensuring accountability for the use of force, and reopening channels for community dialogue that can address grievances without more loss of life.

By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.