Wednesday February 26, 2025

SSC Khatumo leader Abdiqadir Aw Ali Firdhiye addresses a public gathering,

Mogadishu (HOL) — The leader of SSC Khatumo, Abdiqadir Aw Ali Firdhiye, has called for a renewed offensive against Somaliland, urging supporters to escalate their struggle to reclaim contested territories in the Sool and Sanaag regions.

Addressing a rally in Bo’ame, Firdhiye accused Somaliland of displacing local communities and pledged to continue the fight until SSC Khatumo asserts complete control over the disputed areas.

“Our struggle is ongoing. From Heedhadhanka to Erigavo, the smoke of battle still rises. Our people have been uprooted and driven from their homes. Even this land we stand on is under threat,” Firdhiye told the crowd.

SSC Khatumo, which has consolidated control over much of Sool since pushing Somaliland forces out of Las Anod last year, has set its sights on Erigavo, the capital of Sanaag.

In early 2025, SSC Khatumo fighters briefly entered Erigavo but withdrew after a few days. Somaliland has since reinforced its military presence in the city, wary of renewed offensives.

To prevent further unrest, Somaliland authorities have launched reconciliation efforts to ease clan tensions and stabilize the region.

Backlash grows against Somaliland’s plan to nationalize clan militias

Meanwhile, tensions have emerged in Erigavo over the Somaliland government’s plan to integrate local clan militias, particularly the SSB (Somaliland Special Battalion) and G36 units, into the national security forces.

The SSB and G36 are clan-based paramilitary groups operating primarily in Sanaag and parts of Sool. The SSB was initially formed as a regional security force, drawing members from local clan militias in Sanaag and Togdheer regions. It has been involved in counterinsurgency operations against rival factions, including SSC Khatumo forces.

The G36 militia, named after the Heckler & Koch G36 rifle, was initially formed as a clan-based protection force amid territorial disputes in Sanaag. Unlike the SSB, the G36 operates more independently, often acting as a community defence force.

Protesters take to the streets to oppose Somaliland’s plan to nationalize local clan militias, particularly the SSB and G36 units. Demonstrators wave Somaliland flags while chanting against the integration of these forces, fearing loss of autonomy and potential clashes with SSC Khatumo fighters.

Somaliland authorities have attempted to absorb G36 and SSB fighters into the national army. However, resistance remains strong, with many fearing they would lose their ability to act autonomously in local security matters and marginalization within the central command.

Protesters in Erigavo have opposed the move, arguing that it could weaken local defences and expose the city to attack. Demonstrators chanted slogans rejecting the nationalization plan, expressing fears that SSC Khatumo and allied groups could exploit the situation.

“We don’t have full peace yet, and nationalizing these forces could make Erigavo more vulnerable,” said a protester.

“The SSB and G36 are being absorbed, but if SSC is also integrated, won’t they still be a clan-based force? We are also a community. SSB and G36 are already positioned on the frontlines,” a woman protester remarked.

Sanaag Governor Ahmed Abdi Muse confirmed that discussions were ongoing between community elders and the Somaliland administration, emphasizing that progress was being made toward a peaceful resolution. He warned that authorities would take action against any groups resisting stabilization efforts in Erigavo.

A delegation led by Somaliland’s Vice President, Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, is currently in Erigavo overseeing the integration of militias and facilitating reconciliation talks between the city’s clans.

In response to rising tensions, Somaliland has restricted weapons possession in Erigavo to official security forces and has urged displaced residents to return home.