Somalia: Puntland, Galmudug leaders join hands for peace

GALKAYO, Somalia, December 5, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Puntland and Galmudug Presidents have exchanged two weeks of hostility in central Somalia city of Galkayo for a spurt to peace in what is being billed as milestone, Garowe Online reports.

On Saturday morning, Galmudug President Abdikarin Hussein Gulled hosted breakfast for Puntland President Abdiweli Mohamed Ali at luxury hotel in south Galkayo, showing off a rare olive branch with Somalia Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and Jubaland leader Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) present.

Striking a conciliatory tone, Gulled expressed his delight with the tour of Puntland delegation.

“I am very glad that my brother Abdiweli Gaas spouted ahead and initiated [confidence building measures], showing up here, and I hope to do so. I hereby declare hostility nonexistent and we will exchange visits,” said Gulled.

On his side, Ali called Galkayo clashes ‘unprovoked’ and pledged that he alongside Gulled will steer clear of incendiary moves.

Puntland President and Galmudug delegation feasted on a luncheon in the vast north in reciprocation for budding journey of peace.

Garowe Online correspondents say, both sides have begun withdrawing paramilitary units to their permanent bases.

Construction of a paved road straddling a key junction between Galmudug-controlled Barahley neighborhood and Garsoor sparked off fierce gun-battles and shelling on to built-up areas over two weeks ago.

Prime Minister Sharmarke embarked on mediations to end rekindled deadly violence in the potentially dangerous flashpoint in central Somalia.

Puntland and Galmudug leaders agreed to ceasefire on Tuesday.

International community members Thursday said in a joint press statement that responsible officials could be prosecuted for crimes against humanity. 

GAROWE ONLINE