At least 5 killed, scores injured in Somaliland protests

Somaliland’s president blames opposition for stirring violent protests

At least five people were killed and scores injured in Somalia’s breakaway Somaliland region following violent clashes between security forces and opposition supporters on Thursday.

Speaking to reporters, Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi confirmed the death of five people adding that of the more than 100 wounded people, 60% were members of the security forces. Abdi, who is also the president of the ruling Kulmiye party, blamed the opposition for fueling the violent protests in Somaliland’s major towns of Hargeisa, Burao, and Erigavo.

Opposition parties, Wadani and UCID, Somaliland opposition parties demand the presidential election be held on November 13 as previously scheduled, contrary to Kulmiye party’s plans to first register new political organizations.

The head of Wadani party, Abdirahman Irro slammed police brutality and vowed to continue with the protests.

Meanwhile, the international community expressed concern about the situation in Somaliland and called on all leaders “to engage in constructive dialogue” and “protect Somaliland’s peace, stability, and democracy.”