MOGADISHU, Somalia, March 5, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Federal Government of Somalia and the paramilitary group of Ahlu Sunna Wal Jamea signed a ceasefire deal in the central town of Guri’el on Thursday, Garowe Online reports.

Defence Minister Gen. Abdulkadir Sheikh Ali Diini and Ahlu Sunna head Sheikh Mohamed Shakir clinched the deal, bringing a month-long sporadic clashes over the control of the strategic town to an end.

The two sides agreed to the stationing of government troops in Galgadud regional capital of Dhusamareb and Ahlu Sunna militias to remain in Guri’il bases.

Former Galmudug leader and traditional leaders have been spearheading efforts to de-escalate armed tensions.

The formation of federal state consisting of South Mudug and Galgadud has been a bone of contention for struggles for regional influence.

GAROWE ONLINE