Somaliland and the SSC-Khaatumo administration are reportedly preparing to exchange a limited number of prisoners, signaling a potential step toward peace following the violent clashes in Las Anod in early 2023. This development aligns with broader diplomatic efforts, including Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s recent visit to Las Anod, aimed at fostering reconciliation.
Background on the Conflict
The conflict in Las Anod erupted in February 2023 after Somaliland security forces cracked down on civil protests. This led to an escalation when Dhulbahante clan elders declared the formation of the SSC-Khaatumo administration, seeking alignment with the Federal Government of Somalia. The ensuing clashes resulted in over 300 deaths and displaced more than 150,000 individuals.
International Mediation Efforts
The United Kingdom has been actively mediating between the two parties. British Ambassador to Somalia, Mike Nithavrianakis, proposed that Somaliland and SSC-Khaatumo initiate peace efforts by exchanging prisoners, reopening trade routes, and strengthening people-to-people connections. Somaliland’s President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Cirro has expressed a commitment to resolving the conflict through dialogue.
Conditions for Prisoner Exchange
SSC-Khaatumo leader, Abdiqadir Jama Aw-Ali Firdhiye, has stipulated that the release of Somaliland army prisoners will only occur upon reaching a comprehensive peace agreement and cessation of provocations by Somaliland in SSC-Khaatumo territories. Currently, SSC-Khaatumo holds over 229 Somaliland army prisoners.
Role of the International Community
The United Nations has also called for a peaceful exchange of prisoners. UN Special Representative Catriona Laing emphasized the importance of resolving the conflict peacefully and highlighted the UN’s commitment to supporting peace efforts in the region.
This prisoner exchange initiative represents a cautious yet hopeful step towards de-escalation and long-term stability in the region.