Somalia: Puntland President returns to Garowe, spoke about expansion of Parliament

GAROWE, Puntland- The President of Somalia’s northeastern region of Puntland, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali “Gaas” has arrived back to Garowe city after concluding an extended Europe visit in May, Garowe Online reports.

Upon arrival to the State House, President Ali spoke to the media and highlighted on wide range of issues including the recurrent clashes in Mudug region, suicide bombing in Bosaso and London conference on Somalia hosted by UK government in early May.

Asked about the controversy behind expanding the state Parliament, President Ali noted that he asked the Parliament leadership in a letter to open a parliamentary session to debate about increasing the state’s-66 seats chamber.

“I have no legal mandate to expand the Parliament, I presented a request to the Parliament leadership and it wasn’t a secret. I asked the Parliament to debate about adding seats to those clans claiming they are not represented. The mandate to increase seats falls under the Parliament itself,” added Ali.

President Ali later described London conference as a good step to restore back Somalia’s status in the international arena, building the economy and bringing needed development.  

Speaking about the recent clashes between pastoral communities in Mudug region, President Ali lamented at the incident and urged warring clans to stop unnecessary bloodshed amid drought crisis.  

He later sent his condolence to the victims of the suicide bombing at a security checkpoint in Bosaso city last Tuesday, and noted such attacks will not deter efforts to fight terrorism.

President Ali also congratulated Puntland people for the start of the holy month of Ramadan on Saturday and wished them all a joyful holy month.

GAROWEONLINE