New Puntland President Takes Office From His Predecessor

The newly elected president of Puntland regional state of Somalia, Said Abdullahi Deni and his deputy, Ahmed Elmi Osman alias Karash have officially taken office on Sunday.

A brief handover ceremony that was held at Puntland presidential palace in the state administrative headquarters of Garowe was also attended by former regional state president, Abdiweli Mohamed Gas and his deputy, Abdulhakim Omar Amey.

President Deni is expected to unveil his new cabinet in the next coming days.

The new regional leader promised to improve security, develop the economy and mend relations with the federal government in Mogadishu.

He was elected on 8th January with 35 votes defeating his close contender, General Asad Osman Diyano who garnered