Watch: PM Hamza issues serious statement on the crisis in Beledweyne

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – The Prime Minister of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre, who today delivered a speech at the inauguration of the new leadership of HirShabelle, addressed sensitive issues regarding the tensions in the city of Beledweyne, the capital of Hiiraan region.

Hamza stated that the federal government is committed to finding an official solution to the grievances of the people of Hiiraan, so that they can unite with the HirShabelle administration.

“I know that many from the Hiiraan community have longstanding grievances related to issues in HirShabelle that are not new; I want to say that we are committed to resolving those grievances,” the Prime Minister said.

He also suggested that the existing grievances of the people of Hiiraan, particularly the Hawadle clan, should be addressed to overcome the conflicts in HirShabelle.

“Those grievances cannot continue; we are ready to engage in dialogue and then address the correct grievances in that matter, whether it is at the State level or the Federal level, we are committed to it, and we are pursuing its plan,” Hamza added.

He also issued a call to the traditional elders of Hiiraan, asking them to unite with HirShabelle and work towards the development of the area and how to continue the fight against Al-Shabaab, which is well-known among the local people.

Earlier, the President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who also spoke about the tensions in Beledweyne, announced that the capital has been granted to the people of Hiiraan, and it is necessary for them to bring a peaceful city where the senior leaders of HirShabelle can operate, and then the administration will relocate there.

The President also urged people with grievances to calm down and refrain from taking any retaliatory actions, as the capital is allowed.

This statement comes at a time when there is currently a tense situation in the city of Beledweyne, where movements are being made by disgruntled politicians opposing the HirShabelle administration. On the other hand, the city is also home to the new Deputy President of HirShabelle, Cabdifitaax Xasan Afrax, who is also making efforts to ease the overall situation, after which discussions would take place.