Monday October 14, 2024
A group of people gathers outside Rahma (Raxma) Hospital in Badhan, Sanaag region. SUBMITTED
Garowe (HOL) — A brief clash broke out this morning between Puntland forces and troops from Maakhir State in Badhan, Sanaag region, intensifying a standoff that has been in place since Sunday. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions just outside the district, with no reports of major casualties.
The confrontation occurred when Puntland forces attempted to block Maakhir State politicians, who had been touring the Sanaag region, from entering Badhan. The visit follows growing friction between the two administrations as Maakhir State seeks to assert its presence in the area.
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Although the clash did not result in immediate casualties, the continued military buildup on both sides points to a potentially dangerous escalation. The situation remains fluid, with local sources expressing concerns about a larger conflict if the standoff continues unresolved.Abdirahman Dhoore, the leader of Maakhir State and a former Puntland MP, has remained defiant, stating that they will not be prevented from accessing any part of the Sanaag region. “We have the necessary forces to defend our cause and will continue to strengthen our administration,” Dhoore declared.
Dhoore, expelled from Puntland’s parliament in 2020 for inciting unrest, has accused Puntland’s leadership of orchestrating his removal from office. He was recently elected Maakhir State’s leader during a political meeting in Mogadishu, which further fueled tensions with Puntland’s central administration.
The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts to defuse the crisis have yet to materialize.