By M.A. Egge
The President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro has reminded the members of the newly established Somaliland Peace Council (SPC) that they have been charged with an onerous task of heavy obligations in seeing to it that a harmonious and tranquil scenario is initiated, achieved and realized through peaceful means of conciliatory dialogue in the country; and that they should rest assured of full government support in their endeavors.
He also informed them that the formation of the peace council has been received warmly abroad by the international community.
According to a press release by the Presidential Spokesman Hussein Adam Ige Deyr, the Head of State made the reminder as he met the officials of the SPC at the Presidency on Tuesday in which the Minister of the Presidency, the Presidential Spokesperson and the Secretary to the President were present
The highly respected and renowned statesman, who happens to be the Senior Presidential Political Advisor, was named to lead the recently established national ‘Somaliland Peace Council’ of seven-man team who will work to promote peace and national unity.
The President told the SPC that the purpose of their establishment is to create a peacemaking environment based on dialogue, understanding, and community participation so that the Nation of the Republic of Somaliland in all regions of the country can enjoy lasting peace and stability.
The President told the SPC officials that they have a legal mandate that is responsible for promoting peace, stability and protecting the unity of the Republic of Somaliland.
He informed them that the establishment of the Peace Committee has had a great impact on the international level, especially given the fact that the composition of the officials are eminent personalities who are highly respected.
He pointed out to them that they are expected to spearhead the efforts of the government to establish peace, resolve conflicts and reconcile the members of the society, especially in areas where there are conflicts.
The President assured them that the government will support the SPC to the hilt, both morally and materially, in facilitating the concerted efforts of the peace overtures for talks and create forums, and environment for dialogue in order to strengthen peace and stability in society and prevent unnecessary conflicts.
The SPC officials on their part briefed the President on the latest efforts and steps they have taken as a committee to begin laying the groundwork for peace talks with the parties concerned, especially traditional leaders from the conflict-affected areas.
They assured the President that they will redouble their efforts in order to fulfill the important mandate entrusted to them by the President, especially in holding, facilitating and delivering peace conferences and dialogues with communities affected by the conflict.
Apart from Chairman Abdilqadir Haji Ismail Jirde, the other members are Jama Ahmed Mohamed Odey as Deputy Chairman and Hassan Ahmed Ibrahim (Embassy), Ali Said Raygal, Mohamed Jama Abgaal, Shu’ayb Mohamed Musa and Mohamed Iid Dimbiil as member.