Somalia: Puntland President jets off to UAE amid heightened tensions in Galkayo

GAROWE, Puntland- A delegation led by Puntland President Abdiwali Mohamed Ali Gaas have jetted off to UAE on Saturday, despite caretaker Prime Minister visit to Puntland, Garowe online reports.

Close sources tell GO that Puntland leader is set to hold meetings with the management of UAE-based firm that secured the expansion project for Bossaso port in May 2015, which it failed to kick start the project since then.

Last week, President Ali appointed Saed Mohamed Rage as the new Minister for Ports and Marine Transport after sacking the former official Abdullahi Jama Saleh in a presidential decree.

Minister Rage previously held the same position during the past government term of former Puntland President Abdirahman Mohamed Farole.

President Ali welcomed caretaker Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke at Garowe Airport and held short meeting before departing to UAE.

On Friday, caretaker PM Sharmarke visited Adado town in Galgaduud region and held talks with state officials to end tensions after deadly clashes erupted between forces loyal to Puntland and Galmudug. Warring administrations have fought on various occasions over disputed areas in Mudug region.

However, President Ali visit to UAE is expected to draw heavy criticism amid ongoing fighting in Galkayo that affected civilians and displaced hundreds of residents. The visit coincides at a time when Puntland government is expected to fall behind deadlines to prepare for the upcoming parliamentary elections due to conclude on November 10.

Last week, country’s electoral body has released press statement indicating the progress of the parliamentary elections process, but unlike Jubaland and Southwest states, Puntland state fell behind in nominating parliamentary candidates and delegates.        

Somalia is in race of time as the forthcoming elections is set to conclude in less than two months, amid reiterated support from International community for inclusive, fair and timely Somali elections.

GAROWEONLINE