Tuesday November 7, 2023
Garowe (HOL) - At least one civilian, a young girl, was killed, and several others were injured during a clash between security army and militia forces in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland State, on Tuesday.
The confrontation erupted when militia forces reportedly opened fire at Garowe's central square, where supporters of the President's political organization gathered to welcome Captain Ayub, a social media influencer and supporter of President Said Deni.
Reports indicate that the militia also fired a mortar in the direction of the presidential palace. But, it did not hit inside the presidential building, and no casualties were reported.
Captain Ayub, a notable social media influencer, has been an outspoken critic of opposition politicians, particularly Mohamed Faroole, the son of Senator Abdirahman Faroole. Mohamed Faroole is currently vying for the presidency of Puntland.
Last month, Puntland's opposition group accused President Said Abdullahi Deni of stoking new conflicts to extend his term in power. They claimed that the regional leader had instructed army officials to support his candidacy for an extension, warning of potential adverse consequences for Deni's leadership.