Somalia: Puntland President sacks PHA Director

BOSASO, Puntland- The President of semi-autonomous region of Puntland region, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali "Gaas" has sacked the Director of region's Highway Authority (PHA) on Friday, Garowe Online reports.

According to a presidential decree obtained by the media on Saturday, Mohamed Abdinuur Adan was dismissed from his post and his deputy Saed Mahmoud Jama was temporarily appointed as the new director of the agency.

However, the reasons behind the dismissal are unclear, but it came in a time when the agency is marred with corruption and tender malpractices for projects implemented in Puntland state, including the rehabilitation project of Garowe-Galkayo highway.

Additionally, sources tell GO that members of the Board of Directors of the agency have filed complains against Adan and accused him of involving in fraud and malpractice.

"Following dispute between the Director and several staff, an investigation was launched by the BOD and noticed fraud and irregularities in some of the projects," added the source.

Adan who was is presently in Bosaso has attempted to persuade President Ali from sacking him, according to sources.

This came amid expected cabinet reshuffle to be made in the coming days, but sources revealed that the move could face delay as some politicians refused to accept the nominations made by Ali.

GAROWEONLINE