Somaliland’s military commander, Nuh Ismail Tani, stated that his government does not seek a fight with Puntland but is ready to defend itself in the event of an attack.
Tani responded to allegations made earlier this week by Puntland’s Commander of Darawish troops, Abshir Abdi Jama, who accused Somaliland’s separatist government of funding terror and criminal organisations in Puntland and southern Somalia, at a press conference in Hargeisa on Saturday.
The two sides’ tensions have risen since Somaliland soldiers took control the Boo’ame district in the Sool region from Puntland on October 31.
Tani brushed off Jama’s remarks, stating that Somaliland prefers peaceful relations with its neighbours.
“The foundation of Somaliland and its army is peace with our neighbours. Puntland is our neighbour, and we have never spoken negatively about them. We value our neighbours “Commander Tani stated.
“The (Puntland) commander speaking was a recent appointment from the diaspora. He has no knowledge what occurred in the area “Tani’s commanding officer stated.
Puntland’s government has promised to reclaim the Boo’ame district as soon as possible.