Laas-aanood, Somalia – A crucial phase in Somalia’s complex federalization journey is unfolding in Laas-aanood, the administrative heart of the Sool region. A prominent Member of Parliament (MP), Ilyaas, has embarked on a vital visit aimed at solidifying the foundation of the emerging SSC-Khaatumo administration. This initiative marks a significant step in the intricate political landscape of a region long shaped by competing claims and periods of intense unrest.
Member of parliment Ilyaas, an MP deeply involved in national reconciliation efforts, has stated that his primary objective in Laas-aanood is to actively contribute to establishing a robust and effective local governance structure. His presence and direct engagement reflect a firm commitment to fostering stability and ensuring the creation of a legitimate authority following a challenging period for the city and its inhabitants. Central to these discussions is the ongoing work to formally recognize SSC-Khaatumo as a new, unified administrative region encompassing the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn territories. This move is envisioned to bring consolidated governance to an area historically fragmented by differing political allegiances.
The political trajectory of Laas-aanood, a city predominantly inhabited by the Dhulbahante clan, has been fraught with challenges. For years, it found itself at the nexus of a bitter territorial dispute between the self-declared state of Somaliland and Somalia’s Puntland state. Residents frequently voiced grievances concerning insecurity and perceived political marginalization, sentiments that erupted into widespread protests and severe armed clashes between late 2022 and early 2023. These confrontations resulted in extensive displacement of civilians and considerable infrastructural damage, drawing urgent attention from the international community.
The turning point arrived in August 2023 when Somaliland forces withdrew from Laascaanood after a prolonged and intense conflict. Subsequently, local Dhulbahante clan elders declared their intention to form a state, SSC-Khaatumo, directly integrated under the Federal Government of Somalia. This declaration explicitly rejected the long-standing assertions of sovereignty from both Somaliland and Puntland over the area. In a landmark decision, the Federal Government of Somalia officially recognized SSC-Khaatumo as an interim administration in October 2023. This recognition, while welcomed by the nascent administration, has been met with strong objections from Puntland, which continues to assert its historical claims to the region.
During his current visit, the parliamentarian, law maker Ilyaas, has consistently stressed the paramount importance of inclusivity in the formation of this new governance body. He asserted that comprehensive representation for all communities and stakeholders within the region is not merely desirable, but essential for the long-term legitimacy and effectiveness of the new administration. Furthermore, he acknowledged the crucial facilitative role played by the federal government, highlighting the presence of a delegation that includes several federal ministers and fellow MPs in Laascaanood, working to streamline the intricate processes involved.
While recognizing the inherent complexities and potential obstacles in establishing a lasting administration in a region with such a turbulent past, MP Ilyaas conveyed a palpable sense of optimism regarding the prospects for significant regional development and enhanced stability. He posited that the successful formation of SSC-Khaatumo could unlock considerable opportunities for progress. His impassioned appeals for unity and robust cooperation among all involved parties resonate deeply, as he firmly believes that a collective, collaborative approach is indispensable for overcoming any challenges that may emerge and for forging a cohesive future.
The developments in Laasa’anood transcend local significance; they reflect a broader national narrative of state-building and federal consolidation in Somalia. The successful establishment of the SSC-Khaatumo administration could serve as a model for resolving regional disputes and fostering greater cohesion within the federal framework. Its journey forward hinges critically on sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to a peaceful, prosperous, and unified Somalia.
