Hargeysa (Sunatimes) The leader of the newly formed Hizbullah Party, Sheikh Mohamud Abdullahi Gelle (dressed in white robe and head gear) during the official inauguration of the contraversial party in Hargeisa, Somaliland.

Somaliland has arrested the leader of a newly formed Islamist party, Sheikh Mohamud Abdullahi Gelle, officials say.

Somaliland’s director of interior ministry, Abdullahi Madobe confirmed to Bar-kulan that the leader of Hizbullah, Sheikh Mohamed Abdullahi Gelle was arrested after he was accused of forming an Islamist party contrary to their constitution.

He said whilst Somaliland’s constitution allows the formation of political parties, regional, tribal and Islamist parties are forbidden in the region.

Reports say the Islamist leader is being questioned by intelligence officers on issues regarding his parties.

Speaking to journalists in Hargeisa before his arrest, Sheikh Gelle, who owns various religious centers in Hargeisa is said to have said that his party intends to impose Sharia law in the region.

Sheikh Gelle declared his Hizbullah party a month ago.

By Keyse Digale