Somalia's President Plans Peace Visit to Hiran Region

BELEDWEYNE, Somalia - Reports indicate that Somalia's President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, will soon travel to Baladweyne in the Hiran region to resolve ongoing conflicts between local groups and the Hirshabelle state administration.

The purpose of his visit is to finalize discussions on disbanding the self-declared Hiran state, created by dissenting officials frustrated with the management of power and resources within Hirshabelle. The national government has pushed for local militias in Baladweyne to surrender control to official security forces, indicating a move towards peace.

In preparation for this visit, Somalia's intelligence chief, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, or Sanbalolshe, has played a significant role in the peace process. Originally from the area, Ali has expressed disappointment in not being able to protect his hometown and has encouraged local leaders to reconcile.

Federal MP Abdirahman Gurey has highlighted the critical nature of President Mohamud’s journey, aiming to conclude the conflict and restore security governance to national forces. For over a year, Baladweyne has been dominated by clan militias, resulting in widespread violence, extortion, and a collapse of law and order.

Nevertheless, merging Hiran back into the Hirshabelle administrative structure presents obstacles. Communities in eastern Hiran, who have long complained about exclusion, may oppose the dissolution of their state. Their leaders have been addressing perceived governance disparities for nearly a decade, implying that achieving a resolution will involve delicate negotiations and notable compromises.

GAROWE ONLINE