Somali PM’s Laascaanood Visit to Include Talks on Sensitive Regional Matters

(GO) - Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre is expected to raise the issue of prisoners captured from Somaliland forces during upcoming talks with leaders of the Khaatumo administration, sources tell Garowe Online.

The discussions are set to take place during the Prime Minister’s anticipated visit to Laascaanood, a city that has been at the center of recent conflict in the Sool region. According to multiple sources with knowledge of the matter, Barre will urge Khaatumo officials to release prisoners held since the fighting, some of whom were detained during heavy clashes between local forces and Somaliland troops.

The request reportedly follows behind-the-scenes conversations between Barre and federal lawmakers from areas  Somaliland, who have been pushing for the release of those captured.

Khaatumo’s response remains uncertain. The administration currently holds a number of detainees, and the issue is politically sensitive given the toll the conflict has taken on communities across the region.

This will be Prime Minister Barre’s first visit to a region outside southern Somalia since taking office—one that has already drawn concern from Somaliland authorities.

Federal government advance teams have arrived in Laascaanood ahead of the visit to coordinate logistics and prepare for meetings with local leaders.

Garowe Online will continue to monitor developments from Laascaanood.