[8] In November 2006, the Union of Islamic Courts reportedly captured Bandiiradley, a strategically located settlement near Puntland's border with Mudug.

However, a spokesman for local warlord Abdi Hassan Awale Qeybdiid claimed that his troops had only made a tactical retreat from the area.

Then incumbent President Mohamud Muse Hersi was quoted on Al Jazeera as saying that "giving in to the pirates' demands was not an option.

[11] In October 2008, Muse also signed a Dh170 million agreement with Dubai's Lootah Group to support the construction of an airport, seaport and free zone in the coastal city of Bosaso.

Muse indicated that "I believe that when we finish all these projects our people will benefit by getting good health services, education and overall prosperity.