**Las Anod (AX)** — In the days leading up to a critical conference set to finalize the formation of the newly recognized SSC-Khaatumo regional state, significant divisions have emerged within the traditional leadership of SSC-Khaatumo. The impending conference, scheduled for Sunday in Las Anod, is not just a gathering—it’s a potential juncture in the region’s political evolution.
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As anticipation builds, a palpable tension has seeped into the SSC-Khaatumo community, splitting it into two distinct factions. On one side, there are those who support the current interim leadership. On the other, there are the opposition politicians and presidential candidates, each with their own vision for the future. It raises an essential question: How do we forge unity in a landscape marked by division?
At a recent press conference, Garaad Jama Garaad Ali, the Supreme Traditional Leader of the Dhulbahante clan, addressed these issues head-on. With conviction in his voice, he dismissed external influences that have attempted to sway the leadership process. “For 15 years, I have resisted directives from outside,” remarked Garaad Jama. “I cannot now stand by and allow my people to be guided by the very forces I have long opposed.” He further emphasized, “The Warsangeli are our brothers and neighbors—we care for them deeply. This matter must be resolved among us, not dictated by others.”
This potent statement evoked memories of past conflicts, reminding us how intertwined personal and collective identities are in this region. Isn’t it ironic how the quest for peace often stumbles over the footprints of historical grievances?
As the Garaad cautioned against imposing leadership choices, he underscored the necessity for genuine dialogue. “If we don’t engage in real conversations now, we risk spiraling back into a state of instability,” he warned. It’s a sobering reflection, highlighting the intricate balancing act between ambition and caution—an acknowledgment that progress must be paved with the stones of collaboration.
In a parallel track, SSC-Khaatumo’s interim president, Abdiqadir Ahmed Ali Firdhiye, convened meetings with tribal leaders from the Sool and Sanaag regions. This was not merely a strategic sit-down; it was an opportunity to address lingering concerns while promoting peace-oriented dialogue as the conference approached. These leaders voiced their support for the imminent event, underscoring their desire for an inclusive process. The question remains: can diversity of thought indeed catalyze mutual respect and understanding?
On Saturday, SSC parliamentarians gathered in Las Anod, reflecting the urgency of the situation. While discussions were robust, no concrete resolutions emerged, leaving many anxious about the future. The growing tensions were further exacerbated earlier in the week when several presidential candidates alleged that President Firdhiye was manipulating the conference, deliberately excluding representatives from the Warsangeli clan. “Where is the transparency?” they queried, echoing a sentiment that resonates far beyond these walls—how can we build trust in governance if the process feels opaque?
The forthcoming Las Anod conference is intended to facilitate the formal transition of SSC-Khaatumo from an interim administration to a fully recognized federal member state. Earlier this year, the Somali Federal Government officially recognized SSC-Khaatumo, following months of conflict with North Western State of Somalia forces and a shifting political landscape in northern Somalia.
As we delve deeper into the intricacies of this situation, it’s worth contemplating the broader implications. This impasse is more than a mere political standoff; it reflects the fragile underpinnings of the political process within SSC-Khaatumo. Just how does one navigate the complex interplay of clan rivalries and political ambitions while striving to establish an inclusive administration? The challenges are palpable, serving as a reminder of the monumental task ahead.
In reflecting on this moment, we must consider the voices of countless individuals caught in the crossfire of politics. Every leader, every candidate embodies a unique narrative, contributing to the rich tapestry of SSC-Khaatumo’s identity. How could we, as observers, assist in amplifying these voices rather than allowing them to be drowned out by the clamor for power?
As we approach Sunday, the conference looms like a horizon just within reach. Will it be a moment of unity or further division? The choices made during this pivotal gathering could fundamentally reshape not only the SSC-Khaatumo region but also resonate across Somalia’s political landscape. The stakes are high, and the responsibility lies in the hands of those gathered.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
