Hundreds of dignitaries gathered at the conference venue in the outskirts of Lasanod; Day 1 of the conference started with the peaceful gathering of all the delegates, including members of civil society, women’s groups and the Jamahir _youth freedom fighters. The first day focused on opening remarks and speeches, laying the foundation for the next few days to debate and deliberate on best ways for SSC folks to obtain self-determination.
Among the keynote speakers, Garaad Abdirisak G. Sofe joined the 13 member Traditional elders, and the 33 committee tasked with providing consultation and advice on the self determination of SSC Khaatumo. Garaad Abdirizak G.Sofe reiterated the need for unity and adherence to the wishes of the young men and women who lost their lives, seeking freedom of speech and their right of assembly. “We will honor your voices and you should never fear any one or group that works against the collective voice of the young generation” said the Garaad.
Additionally, Sahra Kin, a member of the women’s groups, reminded the delegates about the role of women and young girls who were among the founders of the current ssc revolution. “Women have not only prepared this conference venue, but they are also behind many of our community’s accomplishments” concluded Sahra.
Majority of the speakers highlighted the importance of taking action to lay the foundations for a credible system of governance by the people and by extension, prioritizing the next generation. SSC elders have acknowledged past mistakes of governance design, however, the conference focused on the present and the future of Sool region.
Over the next few days, the traditional elders and the technical committee of SSC are expected to continue debating on the fate of the SSC region; traditionally, SSC folks are Unionists and would like to form and legitimize their own provincial state within the Federal Republic of Somalia. Recent murders of SSC members by the Somaliland Militia led to the current Blue Wave revolution of pro Unionist in the SSC Khaatumo region.
Although Lasanod and surrounding SSC cities have rid themselves of Somaliland militia, Calls by the Local elders to remove the Somaliland army from the SSC region have been unsuccessful as Somaliland continues to build up their military presence in the Lasanod area.
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