Puntland leader hosts opposition head of poll talks

Said Abdullahi Deni of Puntland has hosted the opposition candidates led by former presidents Hassan Sheikh and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as well as his Jubaland counterpart Ahmed Madobe at his residence.

News Keydmedia Online
14 March 2021

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The council of candidates held a productive meeting with leaders of Jubaland and Puntland in Mogadishu’s most secure zone, the Halane compound on Sunday morning.

Said Abdullahi Deni of Puntland has hosted the opposition candidates led by former presidents Hassan Sheikh and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as well as his Jubaland counterpart Ahmed Madobe at his residence.

The two sides discussed ways to end the current bitter stalemate over the electoral process and lead the country to an inclusive and peaceful election this year.

“The positions of the two presidents balanced the equation and saved the nation from opening up wounds which are yet to be healed,” said opposition candidate Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame.

The meeting comes ahead of planned talks between outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo and leaders of the five regional states under the mediation of the international partners in Mogadishu.

No date or location for the summit was declared, but sources revealed to KON that the sides will meet at the Afisyoni near the airport after Madobe and Deni demanded a secure venue.

KEYDMEDIA English