Somalia's President Offers HirShabelle Capital to Hiiraan Region

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced on Sunday that the regional capital of HirShabelle would be allocated to Hiiraan region. This move aims to address grievances among local communities, particularly the Hawadle clan, amid growing tensions over the administration's leadership. The president made the announcement during the inauguration ceremony of HirShabelle's new leadership. He emphasized that Hiiraan residents have been granted the right to host the regional capital.

President Hassan Sheikh urged residents and political groups expressing dissatisfaction with the HirShabelle administration to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions. He stated that their demand for the regional capital had been addressed. However, the president noted that the transfer process would require a formal decision by HirShabelle's leadership in accordance with the regional state's constitution. This decision must be made before steps can be taken to relocate the administration's headquarters.

The president emphasized that the second phase of the process involves determining how the relocation will take place. He added that no one is being denied the capital, but there must be people capable of managing it. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in Beledweyne, the capital of Hiiraan region. Disgruntled politicians and groups opposed to the HirShabelle administration have been mobilizing in the city.

The dispute has centered on political representation, the location of the regional capital, and grievances over the leadership of HirShabelle. The region comprises Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. Meanwhile, HirShabelle's newly appointed Vice President, Abdifitah Hassan Afrah, is in Beledweyne. He has been holding consultations aimed at easing tensions and opening dialogue with dissatisfied political figures.

The president's announcement could open the way for discussions over relocating HirShabelle's administrative headquarters. However, the process remains subject to a formal decision by the regional leadership and constitutional procedures. The move is seen as an attempt to address the grievances of the local communities and calm the tensions in the region.

The Hawadle clan has been expressing dissatisfaction with the current leadership of HirShabelle. They have been demanding a greater share of power and representation in the regional administration. The allocation of the regional capital to Hiiraan region is seen as a step towards addressing these grievances.

The situation in HirShabelle remains volatile, with tensions between the different clans and political groups. The president's announcement has been seen as a positive step towards resolving the crisis. However, the implementation of the decision will require careful planning and dialogue with all stakeholders. Key points:

Key points

• President Hassan Sheikh allocates HirShabelle capital to Hiiraan region.
• The move aims to address grievances among local communities.
• The transfer process requires a formal decision by HirShabelle's leadership.