In the aftermath of the 2017 elections, the once united Garre council of elders found themselves in a state of disarray. Tasked with preserving the customary laws and fostering dialogue to resolve family disputes, they had become divided due to political differences that arose during the electoral competition. Takaba, a town in the region, experienced an unfortunate incident when a Garre man lost his life in an accidental collision caused by another Garre driver. However, with the council in disunity and the community divided along political lines, resolving the matter seemed nearly impossible.
Thankfully, a glimmer of hope emerged through the intervention of the Mediation Agencies Network (MAGNET), renowned for their post-conflict reconciliation efforts. Recognizing the urgent need for dialogue to reconcile the Garre Sub clans in Takaba, MAGNET mobilized various stakeholders who offered cost-sharing support for the crucial meeting.
The dialogue process began as delegates from different factions traveled to Takaba, ready to engage in open-hearted discussions. Amidst these conversations, it became evident that several key issues had contributed to the escalation of the dispute. The simmering political tensions had exacerbated the situation, even affecting the unity of the revered elders themselves, preventing them from impartial engagement.
Furthermore, it was revealed that the victim of the accident belonged to the Leysan clan, an affiliated group within the Garre community. This affiliation seemed to influence the perception of the Garre elders from the perpetrator’s clan, hindering their responsiveness to the situation.
Moreover, the Garre community’s customary laws differed from those of other communities, leading to confusion on how to appropriately address the incident. The elders acknowledged the need for timely justice and vowed to reflect on their customary laws, considering adjustments to avoid such delays in the future.
Through intense and heartfelt dialogue, the elders eventually reached a consensus. They extended a sincere apology (Sabeen Xir) to the family of the deceased and agreed to promptly cover burial expenses. Additionally, the agreement reached between the two clans would be disseminated at the village level, aiming to prevent any further speculations or misunderstandings.
Looking ahead, a follow-up meeting was scheduled for one year later to review the progress of the blood compensation and assess the overall reconciliation process. Furthermore, mosques in the community would play a pivotal role in preaching unity, bridging the gaps created by the electoral competition.
As the dialogue concluded, a sense of relief and hope enveloped the gathering. The Garre elders had rediscovered their harmonious essence, paving the way for a renewed era of unity and understanding. MAGNET’s tireless efforts had borne fruit, demonstrating that reconciliation and healing were always within reach, no matter how deep the wounds of disunity may have been. The story of the Takaba reconciliation served as a beacon of hope, inspiring communities to cherish their traditions, embrace dialogue, and forge ahead together, hand in hand.
