Photo/Somali Times
Following last night’s decision by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni to levy taxes in the area in US dollars, public outrage and protests have begun in Puntland today.
Large crowds gathered in major cities such as Garowe, Bosaso and Galkayo, who was equally opposed to Deni’s order. Protesters chanted slogans against the administration’s leadership, accusing it of exacerbating widespread inflation.
The root cause of the crisis came after large traders refused to accept the Somali shilling, while smaller ones opposed the use of the US dollar.
Economists also believe the decision could exacerbate the economic crisis in Puntland. However, last night’s decision by the President of Puntland State of Somalia falls on December 1st