WADDANI party Condemns beating of Peaceful Demonstrators and use of Ammunition

PRESS RELEASE

The WADDANI Party’s position on the political dispute between the
government and the opposition and the illegal detention of opposition leaders, ordinary opposition supporters and journalist.

We make reference to the Press Release issued by the Government of Somaliland on 11th June 2022 and categorically deny the government’s.claim that it contacted the opposition parties with respect to the protest demonstrations of 9th June 2022 or for any other matter.

We condemn the brutal beatings and shootings of a peaceful demonstrators. The government’s use of live ammunition unarmed civilians and the illegal detention of opposition party members, opposition
supporter’s and journalist are abhorrent and against the constitution. The use of such illegal and totalitarian measures continues to undermine the stability and social cohesion of the Republic of Somaliland.

Article 32 of our constitution guarantees citizens the right to protest and demonstrate. The government’s claim that it promotes constructive dialogue is deceptive, misleading, and untrue. Previous face-to-face meetings have failed due to the government’s bad faith. During such discussions, the government made it abundantly clear that it had no intention of reaching a political settlement or enforcing previous agreements. The government mocked the dialogue, and it became abundantly clear that their sole goal was to waste time in order to postpone the presidential elections on November 13, 2022, and secure an extension of the president’s term

Moreover, the government consistently used coercive methods to secure the resignation of former members of the National Electoral Commission. The WADDANI Party’s position unequivocally remains that no other ballot can proceed or predate the 13 November 2022 presidential elections.

To encourage homemade solution, opposition parties have welcomed and given both their consent and mandate to the 31-member committee consisting of traditional elders, religious and business leaders to mediate the current political dispute. Unfortunately, the president has yet to meetthe mediating committee or give his consent or mandate.

The WADDANI Party will not engage in any form of dialogue with the government until those illegally detained are released. Failure to releasethose illegally detained as a result of 9th June 2022 protests will result in the swift resumption of peaceful nationwide demonstrations.

Mr Mohamoud Adam Jama “Galaal”
Secretary of Information.
WADDANI National Party.