DOOLOW, (HAN) — A major political breakthrough has been achieved in Doolow, the strategic border town in Somalia’s Gedo region, following a high-level meeting between Reer Axmed clan elders and District Commissioner Mohamed Abdi Lafeey. Local sources have described the agreement as historic, aimed at resolving long-standing political tensions and strengthening security in the area.
The discussions, held earlier this week, involved key stakeholders from across the community—including clan elders, youth representatives, civil society actors, and security officials. Analysts say the meeting could mark a turning point in the ongoing power struggle between Somalia’s Federal Government and the Jubaland administration, led by Ahmed Madobe.
Former Gedo security chief Abdirashid Janan and Commissioner Lafeey are scheduled to hold direct talks to resolve political differences. The goal is to establish a unified local administration capable of maintaining peace and providing consistent governance in Doolow.
Janan’s forces, which previously operated independently, will be integrated into Doolow’s official security structure. They will be responsible for protecting the town center and Doolow Airport. Observers say this step is critical to reducing the risk of armed clashes and consolidating security under a single command.
The agreement guarantees that Commissioner Lafeey will remain in office. It also prohibits any dismissals or reprisals against officials and security personnel involved in past disputes, fostering trust between factions and preventing renewed tensions.
All military vehicles in Doolow are to be registered and categorized according to ownership and chain of command. Government forces will hand over heavy weapons to official control, while vehicles and weapons belonging to Lafeey’s loyalists will be recognized as personal or clan-owned property pending verification.
Clan elders and youth representatives played a central role in mediating the agreement. Their involvement highlights the importance of local participation in sustaining peace and ensuring that the deal is respected at the grassroots level.
Following the meeting, elders and Commissioner Lafeey traveled to Beled-Hawo to present the agreement to Janan and finalize its implementation. Sources indicate that these talks are expected to conclude by the end of the week, paving the way for new security arrangements.
Preparations are underway in Doolow to welcome Abdirashid Janan, currently serving as the Gedo Regional Commander of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). His visit, scheduled for tomorrow, will oversee the handover of security responsibilities and reassure residents that peace and stability are the top priorities.
Doolow has long been a flashpoint in the broader political struggle between Somalia’s federal authorities and the Jubaland administration. Armed clashes and disputes over local governance have disrupted trade, displaced residents, and caused widespread insecurity. Analysts note that the agreement is a significant step toward stabilizing the region and promoting development.
Community members and leaders expressed optimism following the agreement. “For years, Doolow has suffered from instability and factional disputes,” said one elder. “This agreement gives us hope for lasting peace and better governance.”
