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Situation in Somalia's Semi-Autonomous Region Remains Tense
The situation in Puntland, the semi-autonomous region of Somalia, remains tense due to the political dispute between Colonel Abdullahi Yussuf Ahmed and Yussuf Hajji Nur over the presidency of the regional government controlling northeastern Somalia.
According to latest reports reaching here in Mogadishu, heavy exchange of gunfire has erupted between militiamen from the two sides at the outskirts of Garoweh town since Tuesday evening.
The shooting reportedly began after militiamen loyal to Nur smashed the parade ground of the town, where Yussuf's supporters prepared for a parade to celebrate the third anniversary of the rule of Yussuf, who came into power on August 1, 1998.
Yussuf's term as leader of the regional government expired at the end of June but he claimed to have extended his tenure for another three years without going out for elections.
Nur and several key traditional leaders in the region have firmly opposed Yussuf's claim.
The town of Garoweh was very tense but calm on Wednesday without further incidents of shooting as the two sides have tightened their respective defense and security.
No fatalities or casualties have been established so far. Garoweh is one of the areas in Somalia where the civil war in the country has not affected.
Yussuf is reportedly enjoying a nice helping hand from Ethiopia, while Nur is believed to be getting substantial support from the new interim government of Somalia.
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