LAS ANOD, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre arrived on Friday in Las Anod, the capital of the Sool region, where they were warmly welcomed ahead of the inauguration of the leadership of the Northeastern Administration.
The high-level delegation also included Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye (Qoor-qoor), senior government officials, members of federal councils, and other dignitaries. They were received at Las Anod airport by leaders of the Northeastern Administration, traditional elders, and representatives of civil society.
The visit comes as federal leaders prepare to attend the official inauguration of the Northeastern Administration’s leadership, an event aimed at strengthening national unity and reaffirming the federal government’s presence in northern regions of the country.
Officials said the visit sends a strong message of unity and demonstrates that Somaliland does not represent all northern regions of Somalia, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to inclusive governance.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s arrival in Las Anod marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Somali president to visit the city since former President Mohamed Siad Barre, who last made a visit more than 50 years ago.
The inauguration ceremony is expected to draw widespread attention and is seen as a significant political development for the Sool region and the broader federal system.
