​Somalia: Hirshabelle President reaches Baladwayne for talks with clans elder

BALADWAYNE, Somalia- A delegation led by the President of newly formed interim state of Hirshabelle, Ali Abdulahi Osoble has reached Baladwayne town in Hiiran region on Wednesday, Garowe Online reports. 

Somali Federal MPs hailing from the region among them former Interior Minister, Abdulahi Godah Bare were reported accompanied Hirshabelle President to Baladwayne.

According to sources, Somali MPs and Bare are expected to mediate talks between President Osoble and regional clans elder amid persistent standoff.

Previously, the elder has strongly opposed the state formation conference last year, following deadlock between Hiiran elders and Somali government over the process. 

However, the security of the town was beefed up by pro-government forces and Djibouti troops serving with the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia (AMISOM) ahead of the visit. 

The delegate is scheduled to meet elders and officials from the region and security agencies during the visit in Baladwayne town.

This is the second trip by President Osoble to Hiiraan region since his election back in October 2016.

Last month, Hirshabelle Parliament approved to extend period to appoint new ministers for the  state following failure to meet previous deadlines to form the administration.