Tension eases in Hiiran as FGS strikes pact with elders, faction leader

GOOBJOOG NEWS|BELETWEYNE:  Tension in Hiiraan region has eased following a deal between the federal government, clan elders, and a separatist militia group.

Goobjoog News correspondent in Beletweyne reports that roads that had been blocked following days of protests in the town have been opened and that there is calm in the town.

Interior Minister Muktar Hussein struck a deal Friday with clan elders from the region after they submitted their concerns regarding the newly elected HirShabelle administration sitting in Jowhar.

The elders are reported to have traveled to Elgaal village located in the outskirts of Beletweyne town where they held talks with a movement headed by General Abukar Huud, a former SNA commander. The two sides reportedly entered into a deal to end the separatist activities.

Huud’s faction which calls itself Hiiraan Rescue Council has been massing up forces in rebellion against president Ali Guudlaawe who was elected last month. The faction has been pushing for the formation of a separate state.