Friday March 22, 2024
Constitutional amendment debates draw former Somali leaders to Garowe
Former President Sheikh Sharif steps onto the Garowe airport tarmac, greeted warmly by a welcoming committee led by Puntland officials.
Mogadishu (HOL) - The former President of Somalia, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, and his delegation arrived on Friday in Garowe, the capital of the Puntland administration.
Upon their arrival, Sheikh Sharif and his team were greeted at the Garowe airport by Puntland's President, Saeed Abdullahi Deni, along with ministers, members of parliament, other officials, and local residents.
Sheikh Sharif's visit to Garowe is to meet with leaders of the Puntland administration and various community sectors.
During this visit, discussions are expected to focus on Somalia's general political climate, particularly the ongoing process of amending the federal constitution.
This visit coincides with the arrival of another former Somalia president, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, who received a warm welcome in Garowe on Thursday.
Puntland is currently emerging again as a center of opposition to Somalia's central government. It is significant to note that Puntland played a crucial role in opposing the previous government under Farmajo.
Nevertheless, former Presidents Sheikh Sharif, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, and Puntland's President, Saeed Abdullahi Deni, share a common stance against the proposed amendments to the constitution. These leaders are anticipated to reach decisions regarding the constitutional changes during their meetings.
During a press conference in Mogadishu on Thursday, Sheikh Sharif criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's administration for engaging in "clan politics" and urged him to reconsider what he perceived as unilateral actions.