Since the collapse of Somali National Government in 1991, arguably the only source of justice and reconciliation we have been depending on was the xeer-beegti system and the traditional leaders. Even before the collapse of the central government, the xeer and traditional leaders were active and simultaneously working with the governmental legal system.

In this lawless era, the traditional leaders spared not only the individuals’ lives but also rescued both major and minor tribes in our society who otherwise would be ethnically cleansed where all other systems failed. Our respected traditional leaders are the guardians of the xeer system and they always stand up for the common good of their people before their personal interests.

Traditionally, our leaders don’t command but they wisely advice. They don’t forcefully control us though they have our loyalties. They give us guidance and we follow their leads. This is what makes our traditional system viable and our leaders powerful and respected throughout the nation. On the other hand, the traditional leaders don’t use law enforcement to implement their agendas on their people. For instance, if a member of their constituency disobeys them; they don’t have authority to imprison or punish him/her other than alienating or disowning the disobedient individual/s, at least at this difficult time.

For that reason, blaming one of the most respected Garaads, Garaad Abdillahi Garaad Soofe that his brother is not following the principles of the Garaad and his community is not only a poor judgment but also irrational. Regardless of how individuals are closely related to the Garaad, they are still entitled to their actions and opinions, which has nothing to do with the Garaad’s dignity and personality because he (Garaad Abdillahi) still has the respect, confidence and the loyalty of the mass majority of his people.

Khadar Ahmednoor Boss,

 khadarboss@hotmail.com