GAROWE (Somaliguardian) – The controversial election of new mayor for the town of Eyl in northeastern Somalia fueled tensions on Saturday amid a visit by regional President Saeed Abdullahi Deni.
The new mayor is a member of the ruling regional party and an ally of Saeed Deni. Opposition parties said they would not accept the election results, citing rigging and other irregularities.
There were reports of protest against the election results staged by residents overnight.
Local militias backed by traditional elders shut down telecommunication services in the town on Sunday, complicating efforts to prevent potential violence.
Speaking after the announcement of election results on Saturday, Puntland leadersaid the town of Eyl has an elected council for the first time in history and residents have right to sack those who fail to serve them as intended.
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