Puntland Enforces Curfew in Laascaanood Ahead of Presidential Vote

GOOBJOOG NEWS | LAASCAANOOD: Authorities in Laascaanood, have imposed a night-time curfew ahead of Saturday’s presidential and vice-presidential elections in Puntland.

According to the regional officials, the measure, announced by the regional Election Commission, is aimed at safeguarding the city during the vote, which comes after months of political tension and conflict in north-east Somalia.

The commission said residents would be allowed to purchase essential goods before the curfew takes effect and warned against the firing of weapons or the entry of unauthorized armed groups into the city.

Five candidates are competing for the presidency of the semi-autonomous Puntland administration, with an equal number contesting the vice-presidency.

Earlier this week, lawmakers elected a new parliamentary speaker, in what observers see as a step toward consolidating political institutions in the region.

Authorities urged citizens to cooperate with the restrictions to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process in one of Somalia’s most politically significant regions.