Puntland and Galmudug start withdrawal of forces from front line

Puntland and Galmudug administrations together with Galkaayo Mediation Team are expected to start the withdrawal of the clashed forces from the front line in Galkaayo town today as part of truce.

Removal of the forces from the town “is the first step” and will be monitored by the team.

The ceasefire was to come into effect on 3rd December but the Solders of Galmudug and Puntland clashed yesterday barely after 24 hours of Peace agreement signed by leaders of Galmudug and Puntland.

Officials from Galmudug and Puntland have traded accusations each side claiming innocence.

Puntland Information Minister So’ade said that Puntland forces were just responding to attacks from Galmudug forces but the situation went out of hand.

“We will hold the gun with one hand and welcome negotiations with the other. If negotiations fail, then we are up to the task and any force that attacks our people will face dire consequences” he said.

But Galmudug information minister Mohamud Adan rubbished the claims and accused Puntland for re-igniting clashes in Galkaayo town a day after a peace deal was signed between the two sides.