Somalia: Puntland President hints at shakeup over incompetence

BOSSASO, Somalia, May 26, 2015(Garowe Online)-The President of Somalia’s Puntland Government Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali has hinted at shakeup amid allegations of administrative drawbacks and security lapse on Monday, Garowe Online reports.

In an interview with VOA Somali Service, Puntland President acknowledged the existence of widespread criticism, and pledged that he will take steps to propose solutions to any problems:” If a person proves ineffective in job, he will be sacked and replaced with more competent one”.

On insecurity in the Gulf of Aden port city of Bossaso, Ali denied that security situation is in greater perils, saying it is far better than previous times.

‘Galkayo part of Puntland’

When asked about a consultative conference that has been set to be staged in Galkayo, Puntland leader once again reiterated that Galkayo is part of Puntland and ruled out any change in the schedule of the gathering.

“Galkayo is part of Puntland. We can confront anybody who aims to stir violence, “said Ali referring to remarks by Galmudug authorities.

Speaking about the Yemen refugee influx, he urged international aid agencies and donors to assist Puntland in the reception of people fleeing from Yemen on daily basis.

For the second time in a week, Puntland President called on Somalia’s Federal Government not to mishandle assistances meant for supporting Yemeni refugees.

Meanwhile in Bossaso, multiple independence sources tell GO that Ali is planning to fire Bari Governor Abdisamad Mohamed Galan, Bari regional police commander Abdihakin Yusuf Hussein and Bossaso Mayor Hassan Abdalle Hassan.

Yusuf Waeys Dhedo who comes from the same clan as Galan is likely to be cherry-picked for the post.

Former Presidential Security Unit (PSU) head Omar Abdullahi Farole is also being held up as successor of Hussein whom Abdirahman Muslim, who was killed by Al Shabaab suicide bomber preceded.

Moreover, during Monday’s interview Puntland leader warned of further division as MPs in Somalia’s Federal Parliament have tabled a motion against the newly-formed Jubaland regional assembly. 

Four days ago, Ali arrived in Bossaso, Puntland's most populous city,making stopover in Qardo in advance. 

Al Shabaab stepped up terror attacks in the Gulf of Aden port city, with security checkpoints and police compounds being largely targeted with grenade attacks and pre-planned raids. 

GAROWE ONLINE