New Puntland tracking devices draw cronyism ire
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- Posted On 23-01-2016, 09:59PM
GAROWE- A directive by Puntland Interior Ministry has drawn the ire of United Nations and other International Agencies, Garowe Online reports.
A businessman with close links to Puntland government officials—Jabir Sidik-- was awarded a lucrative twist in which UN agencies and international agencies should comply with a tracking system, ‘Rubaab vehicle tracking devices’.
Sidik was initially unable to bag commercial support for the new monitoring system.
Three registered rental agencies--Salam Tax, Puntland warehousing and transportation and Ilaal rental company --will outfit foreign convoys with the tracking devices according to a letter issued by Internal Affairs Minister, Ahmed Elmi Osman (Karash).
Karash claimed that the directive was already circulated in October, 2015 and has come into effect on January 1, threatening full compliance by January 20.
Credible sources tell Garowe Online that UN Agencies have expressed concern over the tracking devices that may fall into the hands of terrorists.
Motorist unions have also criticized the strokes pulled in favor of a particular businessman, saying the interior ministry props up private businesses.
The cronyism allegations coincide with mounting grievances in Bossaso port city.
Local clan elders have chided government for giving lucrative tenders to a select few.
Read Puntland Government directive: Rubaan GO.pdf
GAROWEONLINE
