Agreement halts deadly clashes in Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, with federal troops assuming control of security.
After two weeks of deadly violence that claimed at least 50 lives, Somaliland and Ethiopia have reached a critical peace agreement to resolve the conflict in the contested Dacawaley area of Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State. The accord, finalized during high-level talks in Jigjiga, marks a pivotal step toward restoring stability in the region.
The Agreement: Key Points
The deal, brokered between Ethiopian federal officials and Somaliland security representatives, includes several measures aimed at preventing further bloodshed:
Federal Army Deployment: Ethiopian federal troops will assume control of security in Dacawaley, displacing the controversial Liyu Police.
Liyu Police Accountability: An investigation into reported abuses by the Liyu Police, including civilian deaths and the burning of homes, will be conducted.
Land Dispute Resolution: The agreement addresses the underlying territorial conflict that fueled the violence.
Both sides expressed commitment to ending hostilities and fostering long-term peace. Somaliland’s Ministry of Security emphasized the importance of cooperation in preventing further escalation.
Escalation and Atrocities
The conflict peaked on December 25 when Liyu Police forces launched an attack on Dacawaley, reportedly killing civilians, torching homes, and abducting elders traveling from Hargeisa on a peace mission. Somaliland’s government condemned the actions as “genocide” and demanded accountability, raising tensions with Ethiopian authorities.
The deployment of Ethiopian federal troops to the region signifies an effort to de-escalate tensions and address local grievances. The removal of the Liyu Police, whose role in the violence has been widely criticized, is a key concession in the peace deal.
The Dacawaley agreement highlights the delicate balance required to manage inter-regional disputes in Ethiopia, where ethnic and territorial tensions frequently flare into violence. By engaging Somaliland directly, Ethiopian authorities acknowledge the importance of cross-border cooperation in maintaining regional stability.
For Somaliland, the deal underscores its role as a stabilizing force in the region, leveraging diplomacy to address conflicts that threaten its security and international reputation.
While the agreement represents progress, the path to lasting peace will require sustained efforts to resolve deep-seated grievances. The planned investigation into Liyu Police abuses and the settlement of land disputes will be critical in building trust and preventing future flare-ups.
The peace agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia marks a turning point in addressing the Dacawaley conflict. By prioritizing dialogue and accountability, both sides have taken an important step toward restoring stability. However, the success of the deal will depend on its implementation and the resolution of longstanding territorial and governance disputes in the region.
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