Smooth transition in Sool

EDITORIAL

There is increasing evidence that the process of transition for the parts of Sool region that used to be under Puntland’s control and that are now administered by Somaliland is going smoothly. Residents who fled the region, particularly Las Anod, are steadily coming back to their homes. Schools, hospitals, communication, transportation and other vital services are functioning. Of course, it cannot be said that the Sool region problem is solved for good, since there are pockets of that region that are still in the hands of pro-Puntland militias. Nevertheless, it can be said that things are moving in the right direction. None of the threats of major battles that were promised by Puntland or their allied militias have materialized. Just last week, Sool region’s election commission was sworn in Las Anod in preparation for Somaliland’s coming elections. The Commander of Somaliland’s army, Nuh Tani, was in Las Anod this week to further tighten the security of the region. Qaybe and Habsade, the two most prominent politicians from Sool are pro-Somaliland. Talks between Somaliland’s government and Dhulbahante elders, including those in Buhooodle are making progress. Furthermore, Somaliland’s two adversaries (the Puntland administration and the Transitional Federal Republic of Somalia) are literally unraveling.

This positive picture, however, should not blind us to the serious challenges ahead, chief among which is whether Somaliland’s administration will make life better, or not, for the ordinary people of Sool. Ultimate success or failure will most likely depend on the answer to this question. In the meantime, let’s commend the government of Somaliland for the skill and competence it has shown in Sool.

Source: Somaliland Times

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