​Somalia: Puntland President appoints new Chief of Staff

BOSASO, Puntland- The President of Somalia’s northeastern region of Puntland, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali “Gaas” has appointed new Chief of Staff, following the resignation of former official Deeq Sulaiban from his post on Friday, Garowe Online reports.

According to a presidential decree issued from the State House, the President has picked Abdinasir Bihi Sofe for the post on the same day.

Sofe was a former Director for Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) during Ali’s tenure but was replaced following dispute with UAE official in the camp.

He was accused of ties with illegal fishing boats in the territorial waters of Puntland region and abused his position by giving waiver to Iranian ships to illegally carry out fishing activities.  

Additionally, Sofe shares close clan ties with Ali, which possibly prompted the swift appointment but sources noted that Sulaiban and Ali were jointly consent with the resignation.

His sudden departure from the post came amid expected cabinet reshuffle in the coming weeks, which suggest interests to secure a seat in the new cabinet or the new Federal government, as the new Prime Minister Hasaan Ali Khyre was nominated by the Somali President Mohamed Abdulahi Farmajo.

GAROWEONLINE