Waddani party officials arrested, police barricade roads amid expected protests

Police forces in Somaliland have sealed off the headquarters of Waddani party following a planned demonstration set for today.

The move follows the arrest of party Secretary General Khadar Abdi and spokesman Barkhad Jama Sunday. Party leader Abdirahman Irro urged supporters Sunday to pour into the streets on Monday following disputes over the nomination of members to the electoral commission.

Waddani pointed fingers at President Muse Bihi over what it termed as the appointment of cronies to serve in the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (SLNEC). Parliament approved six out of seven members last week with Waddani holding back its candidate.

More to follow.