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An Open Letter sent to the President elect H.E. Abdirahman by the Somaliland’s Disabled People

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Academician Jama Ibrahim Awad, who was the former chairman of Somaliland National Disability Federation (SNDF) and at the moment is disability rights activist and a member of Waddani Political Party, has called on the new President of Somaliland, Dr.Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Abdirahman-Irro) to implement the articles that caused people with disabilities to vote for the WADANI Party, which were part of the campaign program of the WADANI Party that we also conducted on our side as a disabled persons, and you, as a candidate, promised in many public places.

An open letter issued by Jama Ibrahim Awad today, a copy of which was delivered to the office of #Hayaannews, sent a message to the sixth president of Somaliland, Abdirahman-Irro, calling on him to implement it These articles are of interest to the disabled for today and for tomorrow. which are as follows;

Article 1:

A). The President is advised to appoint Either the Minister or Director General of the Ministry of Employment, Social and Women (MESAF) of Somaliland to be educated and experienced gentleman with disability who can implement the “draft law for the protection of the rights of people with disabilities,” said Jama Awad.
He pointed out that the law stipulates that we have to establish a special body called the National Disability Commission. This organization will be responsible for all issues related to disabled people.

He also said that the committee will consist of representatives of all the different types of people with disabilities as defined by the draft law for the protection of the rights of people with disabilities.

Article 2

B). That the President appoints someone with great knowledge and experience to be the President’s Adviser on Disability Affairs. This position is currently vacant, after the recent death of the person with disabilities who held that position.

Finally, he congratulated the president for winning to be the president of Somaliland for the upcoming five years and I hope that Allah will make your job easier.

The Forgotten Soldiers: A Call to Action for Somaliland’s New President

By
Goth Mohamed
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0
The Forgotten Soldiers: A Call to Action for Somaliland’s New President
By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin, Gollis University, Hargeisa, Somaliland

As Somaliland prepares for a new chapter under the leadership of its recently elected president, who takes office on December 13, 2024, the nation faces an urgent and deeply humanitarian crisis: the fate of over 300 soldiers, including high-ranking military commanders, captured during the protracted conflict in the eastern regions. This marks the 25th outbreak of violence in the region—a sobering testament to the fragility of peace and the critical need for decisive leadership.

The outgoing administration, led by President Muse Bihi, has left behind a glaring void in its failure to negotiate the release of these prisoners, raising serious concerns among Somalilanders about the wellbeing of their loved ones and the nation’s moral obligations to its armed forces. The incoming president’s first and most immediate priority must be to address this crisis. A successful negotiation or repatriation effort will not only reunite these soldiers with their families but also restore the morale of the armed forces and reaffirm Somaliland’s commitment to its defenders.

For the families of the captured soldiers, every day without news is a day of anguish. Reports suggest worsening conditions for these detainees, whose fates remain shrouded in uncertainty. Somaliland society, known for its resilience and strong social fabric, is grappling with the implications of this prolonged neglect. The soldiers’ absence echoes through communities, leaving families struggling with economic and emotional hardship.

Moreover, the soldiers themselves—a vital segment of Somaliland’s defense force—deserve better. These men and women swore an oath to defend their homeland, risking their lives on the battlefield. To leave them languishing in unknown conditions is not only a betrayal of their service but also a blow to the values that Somaliland’s democracy and independence stand for.

History has shown that nations committed to the welfare of their armed forces foster greater unity, morale, and public trust. The United States, for instance, has set a precedent for prioritizing the safe return of its soldiers. From prisoner exchanges to daring rescue missions, successive American administrations have demonstrated the importance of leaving no soldier behind.

Such actions not only boost military morale but also strengthen public confidence in leadership. When soldiers and their families know their government will exhaust every effort to secure their safety, they fight with greater resolve, assured that their sacrifices will not be forgotten. Somaliland’s new president must draw inspiration from these examples and act with similar urgency and determination.

The principles of prisoner exchange and treatment are firmly rooted in international humanitarian law. Under the Geneva Conventions and the United Nations Charter, all parties in armed conflict are obligated to treat prisoners of war humanely and facilitate their exchange. These frameworks serve as a reminder that even in the chaos of war, there are rules that must be upheld to protect human dignity.

The Somaliland government must take immediate steps to engage in dialogue with the insurgents, ensuring that negotiations are guided by these principles. Building trust with the opposing side will not be easy, but it is a necessary step toward resolving this crisis and establishing lasting peace in the region.

The incoming president faces an unenviable challenge but also a unique opportunity to demonstrate leadership and compassion. By making the safe return of the captured soldiers a top priority, he can set a powerful tone for his administration—one that values human life, honors service, and upholds the principles of justice and humanity.

This is not merely a political or military issue; it is a moral imperative. Somaliland must show the world—and itself—that it values the sacrifices of its armed forces and stands by those who defend its sovereignty.

President-Elect Cirro: A Unifying Leader Ready to Tackle Somaliland’s Challenges By Professor Nassir Hussein Kahin,

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Professor Nassir Hussein Kahin

Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi “Cirro,” Somaliland’s newly elected president, brings a wealth of experience, a history of unifying leadership, and a reputation for pragmatism to the nation at a critical juncture. With an impressive track record as a former diplomat, a 12 year tenure as Speaker of Somaliland’s Parliament, and another 10 years as leader of the opposition Wadani Party, Cirro’s credentials offer hope that he can address the country’s complex political, social, and economic challenges.

His victory, secured by a sweeping mandate, has been seen as a vote of confidence in his ability to unite a nation and deliver meaningful reforms. Known for bridging divides, Cirro has already begun forging consensus among disparate political factions and is lauded for his ability to manage a divided parliament. Supporters believe his government will reflect this inclusive approach, with major ministerial positions representing a broad cross-section of Somaliland’s diverse regions and political stakeholders.

A Visionary Leader with a Patriotic Drive

Cirro is not just a politician; he is a passionate patriot. Many describe him as a leader who prioritizes his country’s interests over personal gain. His educational background and years of public service have earned him a reputation for thoughtful and balanced decision-making. Observers highlight his pragmatic approach as the key to building peace and prosperity across all of Somaliland’s regions.

His presidency promises a new era of inclusivity, where consensus and consultation with all stakeholders will guide critical policy decisions. This collaborative approach is especially evident in how he has already begun addressing the ongoing crises in Sool and Sanaag regions. High-level talks with key stakeholders from these regions are underway, with the aim of resolving the root causes of conflict and fostering cooperation and partnership. Cirro is committed to ensuring that all Somaliland citizens enjoy equal rights, opportunities, peace, security, and prosperity. This pressing issue is at the top of his agenda as he prepares to assume office on December 12, 2024.

A Balanced Approach to Diplomacy

Cirro faces regional skepticism, with critics speculating about his intentions regarding Somaliland’s sovereignty and its relationship with Ethiopia. Some argue he may not honor the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) or, worse, seek to reunite Somaliland with Somalia. These claims, however, are largely seen as baseless propaganda aimed at undermining his leadership.

Confidential sources close to Cirro’s administration suggest a very different reality. The president-elect is determined to pursue balanced diplomacy, particularly during his first 100 days in office. His goal is to reduce regional tensions and enhance Somaliland’s push for international recognition. Cirro is reportedly committed to engaging neighboring countries, including Somalia, Djibouti, and Ethiopia, to foster mutual understanding and collaboration.

Regarding the MoU with Ethiopia, Cirro is taking a measured approach. He has yet to fully review the agreement but is expected to evaluate its implications carefully. His administration plans to present the MoU to Somaliland’s Parliament for debate, discussion, and a vote, ensuring transparency and consensus. This process reflects his commitment to balancing national interests with regional cooperation.

The Recognition Agenda

One of the most critical priorities for Cirro’s administration is achieving international recognition for Somaliland. Critics claim his diplomatic efforts might lead to concessions that undermine sovereignty, such as granting access to the Red Sea or leasing military bases. However, Cirro’s supporters emphasize that he will never compromise Somaliland’s independence.

Cirro’s strategy appears to be focused on fostering constructive dialogue with neighbors, including Somalia and Djibouti, without sacrificing Somaliland’s core principles. If he succeeds in convincing Somalia and Djibouti to support Somaliland’s recognition without quid pro quo arrangements, it could mark a historic achievement for the nation.

A Pragmatic Path Forward

While skeptics argue that past negotiations with Somalia have failed, Cirro’s leadership offers a fresh perspective. His administration is built on the principles of compromise, consensus, and consultation—values that align with Somaliland’s democratic ethos. By engaging all stakeholders and prioritizing national interests, Cirro seeks to build a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity.

As Cirro prepares to take office, Somaliland faces significant challenges. Yet, his leadership style and track record inspire confidence that he can navigate these obstacles. The onus is now on all Somalilanders to give him the benefit of the doubt and rally behind him as he works toward solutions that benefit everyone. Without broad public support, these challenges cannot be overcome.

From fostering unity at home to securing recognition abroad, President-elect Cirro has the qualities necessary to steer Somaliland toward a brighter future. The nation’s democratic journey continues, and under his leadership, it may finally achieve the recognition it has long sought. For now, Somalilanders from all walks of life should wish him well on this promising yet arduous journey.

Supreme Constitutional Court validates the Somaliland 2024 presidential and political party elections, approves the preliminary declared results

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

WADDANI, KAAH and KULMIYE become the only mandated official political parties to operate in the country for a decade to come

The court was thus obligated to validate and approve the NEC declaration of the election results hence pave the way for the inauguration

The Supreme Constitutional Court of the Republic of Somaliland has approved the official results of the 2024 Somaliland presidential and vice-presidential elections and the political parties’ election held on the 13th November 2024 on Wednesday that was officially preliminarily declared and announced by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

The presidential elections saw a repeat scenario of the 2017 race which this time had the Waddani flagbearer Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro defeat the incumbent president of Kulmiye party and Feisal Ali of Ucid.

It also on Saturday moved in a similar resort to ratify the political parties and organizations elections which was also held on the same day.

The constitution demands that political organizations compete each decade to have the mandated three official political parties have operational mandate for the ten-year period.

Seven political organizations joined the fray to challenge the WADDANI, KULMIYE and UCID political parties for the mandate.

The preliminary results now ratified by the Supreme Court has the UCID party loose its stature as a political and has been replaced by the new entrant KAAH which has triumphed as the first runner up.

WADDANI and KULMIYE have both successfully defended their mandates with WADDANI getting the top spot and Kulmiye becoming the second runner-up.

WADDANI garnered 34.29%, KAAH 20.85% and Kulmiye got 17.14%.

Others are Horseed 12.40%, Hilaac 9.44%, Barwaaqo2.67%, Ucid 1.60%, Talowadaag 0.96%, Rejo 0.33% and Shacabka with 0.32%.

In other words, KAAH graduates from being a political organization to an official political party.

As per constitution, upon declaring the results the (NEC) has a window of period to forward the provisional results to the apex court, who in turn have a stipulated time frame to wait for any complaints arising thereof, if any, to dispense with.

Given the fact that no elections complaints were lodged during the legal time frame to facilitate any appeals, the court was thus obligated to validate and approve the NEC declaration of the election results hence pave way for the inauguration of the triumphant Presidential election winner, President-elect Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro.

The Chief Justice who is also the President of the Constitutional Court, Hon. Adan Haji Ali, declared the official results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections in an approval that had the entire Supreme Court bench of all judges sitting in session for the approval.

They noted that the approval of the official results of the said elections of national organizations and parties, within the legal period allowed by law, was to end on Saturday, the 30th of the month; but since the period of lodging complaints had lapsed, they had no otherwise but inclined to approve the results as obligated.

A circular from the court read; “The Supreme Constitutional Court has approved the provisional results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections by the Electoral Commission as follows:

Waddani Party received 407,409 votes, equivalent to 63.92%.

Kulmiye Party received 225,519 votes, equivalent to 35.34%.

Ucid Party received 4699 votes, equivalent to 0.74%.

“The Supreme Constitutional Court also approved the presidential election results as having been won by Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi Cigaal, while the vice-presidential election was won by Mr. Mohamed Ali Abdi Mohamud, both candidates from the Waddani Party.

“The announcement of the official election results was witnessed by the following Judicial Commissions:

  1. Adam Haji Ali Ahmed: – Chairman
  2. Mohamed Omar Gelle: – Member
  3. Abdikadir Ahmed Mahmoud: – Member
  4. Ahmed Diiriye Qalib: – Member
  5. Mohamed Farah Saeed: – Member
  6. Abdirahman Hussein Aynaan: – Member
  7. Ali-shu’ayb Sh. Ibrahim Nur: – Member
  8. Yahya Ali Idris: – Member
  9. Abdilaahi Abdi Adam: – Member
  10. Abdirahman Hassan Nuur: – Member

Clerk:  Sahra Ismail Abdilahi”.

Despite the legal procedures as per the constitutional obligations, the incumbent President H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi had already congratulated his successor for his triumphant win and called on the populaces to abide by the results and support the new administration.

Similarly, hundreds of congratulations have been heaped upon the incoming Presidents by foreign heads of state, ambassadors, diplomats, eminent personalities from within the country and abroad and the citizenry alike.

Taiwan-Somaliland cooperation remains unchanged under new Somaliland president

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

Taiwan-Somaliland expected to continue under new Somaliland president. (Taiwan Representative Office in Somaliland)

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi reaffirmed bilateral ties during campaign

Cooperation with Somaliland will continue under newly-elected President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, Wang Wen-Lin (王文麟), a counselor in Taiwan foreign ministry’s Department of Asian and African Affairs, said on Tuesday (Nov. 26).

Wang said Abdullahi remains committed to seeking international recognition for Somaliland, Liberty Times reported. During the presidential campaign, Abdullahi reiterated that ties with Taiwan would not change under his leadership. Wang mentioned that the Taiwan representative office in Somaliland maintains connections with his Waddani Party.

The counselor said Taiwan and Somaliland cooperate in public health, information technology, agriculture, and education. Two key projects in Somaliland are underway, including a road infrastructure project and a medical center.

The “Taiwan Road” was announced in September and will connect the nation’s Egal International Airport to its capital Hargesia. The Taiwanese government agreed to provide US$1.85 million, approximately 70% of the total cost, with Hargeisa Municipality covering the remaining 30%.

In October, Taiwan pledged US$22 million to design and construct a medical center at Hargeisa Group Hospital. The Taiwan Medical Center will be a two-story building with 97 beds to increase the hospital’s capacity to nearly 600 beds, according to Representative Allen C. Lou (羅震華).

The representative office said Taiwan “is proud to support Somaliland’s democratization.” The office looks forward to advancing people-centered cooperation between the two countries

The Annual Forum of Somaliland Taxes was held in Burao city

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The Minister of Finance of the Republic of Somaliland Dr. Saad Ali Shire together with the Director General of the Ministry of Finance, the Mayor of Burao District, the Deputy Governor of Togdher Region, the Executive Secretary of Local Government and other officials opened a well-organized event in Burao.

This annual forum aims to give businessmen {Taxpayer} and the Heads of the Ministry an opportunity to exchange any questions and suggestions that both parties have, and was attended by 84 members including hotel owners and managers, local factories, telecommunications companies, electricity providers, Burao Water Agency and other similar entities whose sales are subject to sales tax.

This forum which is held once a year as we mentioned above members of businessmen/women from various business sectors, it’s the fourth time, and it is the first time that it is held outside of Hargeisa City. Each year, a specific theme is chosen depending on the topic that is considered worthy of focus, and this forum’s theme was “Raising Community Awareness of Goods & Services Tax”, during the event, they exchanged ideas and suggestions, on the other hand, the participants shared their questions with the Heads of the Ministry.

The Tax Forum of 2024 which was sponsored by the World Bank is part of the program of expansion and advance of GST {Goods & Services Tax}, this type of tax which is indirect-tax is since the seller transfers to the buyer or customer.  According to the Somaliland Inland Revenue Act Law No. 72/2016 this tax is applicable to the following categories:

  • Sales made by hotels/restaurants such as; sales of food, beverages, lodging services, various events and parties.
  • Communication services.
  • Electricity/lighting services.
  • Domestically manufactured products.
  • Sales of water.
  • Sales made by televisions {Example: Receivers for rent}.
  • Sales of transport tickets {air and land}.
  • And the other similar areas.

In conclusion, the Goods and Services Tax is not new, but what is new is only by modernizing the way it is carried out, and at the same time it is intended to be expanded so that it can be fully implemented across the country.

Somaliland Ministry of Finance based on the Financial Management Act of Regulation No. 75/2018, applying the Principles of the Public Finance Management Reform Program, and at the same time taking advantage of modern technology, in 2021 it began to install EFDs {Fiscal Electronic Devises} GST machines in hotels to obtain a secure and reliable tax return. The first phase was started in the capital city of Hargeisa with around 300 hotels fully implemented, and the next phase was passed to the cities of Berbera, Borama, Tog-Wajale and Burao. Domestic tax revenue is 25% of the Government’s revenue, while the other 75% comes from Customs, and the goal is to strengthen or increase domestic revenue to reduce over-dependence on customs revenue.

 

Press Release: Concerns Over Representation at Djibouti Somali Heritage Conference

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By Abdirasaaq Cadami Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG)

The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) has taken note of reports that Dr. Mohamed Hassan attended the Djibouti Somali Heritage Conference, claiming to represent the Waddani Party. This has raised serious concerns within our organization and among the people of Somaliland.

President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro won the trust of the Somaliland public with a historic 65% of the vote a record-breaking achievement that demonstrates the overwhelming confidence placed in him by the people. As he prepares to assume office, there is an expectation for his administration to stand firm on matters of sovereignty and to deliver more than any previous administration.

The Djibouti Somali Heritage Conference is closely linked to the idea of “Somaliweyn,” a concept that fundamentally contradicts Somaliland’s sovereignty. SL-SAG is deeply concerned about Dr. Mohamed Hassan’s participation in this event. If he attended with the approval of President-elect Irro or the Waddani leadership, this decision risks sending the wrong message at a critical moment in Somaliland’s journey.

The new administration must make it clear that Somaliland’s sovereignty is not negotiable. Dialogue with Somalia should only happen on the basis of mutual recognition as two independent states. Somaliland does not have territorial disputes or animosity with Somalia, but any engagement that fails to respect our independence is a waste of time.

As SL-SAG, we urge President-elect Irro to prioritize the mandate given to him by the people. Somalilanders expect him to address and reverse the agreements made under the previous administration that compromised our national interests. It is vital that any representative of the Waddani Party or the government firmly reject actions or forums that undermine Somaliland’s independence.
We call on the President-elect and his administration to take a principled stand, ensuring clarity and consistency in Somaliland’s policies and actions. The people of Somaliland deserve leadership that reflects their aspirations and defends their sovereignty at all costs.

About SL-SAG The Somaliland Strategic Advisory Group (SL-SAG) is focused on promoting the statehood and sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Telephone: 703-774-7416 Fax: 703-724-9407
Email: somalilandsag@gmail.com
Website: https://slsag.org/

Let Somaliland elections usher in new foreign policy- Dr Mohamed A. Omer

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

By pushing for international recognition, Somaliland has been carving out a space for itself in the region and in the international system.

After 33 years of peaceful state building, the role Somaliland plays in regional geopolitics cannot be downplayed anymore. Somaliland’s political system is democratic in a neighbourhood of authoritarian states and the country has remained largely peaceful.

Several foreign nations have representative offices in its capital, Hargeisa, while Somaliland itself maintains liaison offices in 20 countries on five continents. From its role in counter terrorism to its strategic positioning as regional logistics hub, Somaliland cannot be wished away as a key partner in Horn of Africa.

Achieving recognition has been a foreign policy priority for Somaliland. All previous administrations have made efforts to raise awareness about its situation internationally.

However, Somaliland’s lack of international recognition makes it fragile and susceptible to being drawn into regional disputes as it seeks allies, bilateral ties and eventual recognition. This has been the case with the Gulf states, where it has sided with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. In part as a result of this fragility and desire to secure more allies and improve bilateral ties, Somaliland now finds itself in the middle of multiple disputes among other states, including Ethiopia and Egypt, China and Taiwan and on the Red Sea.

The presidential elections in November this year will give the country an opportunity to chart a new path in its foreign policy should a new administration takes over the power. Somaliland will need to adjust to these global and regional dynamics to forge strong international relationships, enhance its diplomatic initiatives, and develop a resilient strategy that aligns with both its domestic ambitions and the broader global context.

The current international landscape is increasingly influenced by the rise of regional blocs and alliances, which provide new platforms and opportunities for advocacy and collaboration. For Somaliland, engaging with these blocs offer a strategic avenue to amplify its voice and advocate for its interests.

By aligning with regional groups that share similar political, economic or security goals, Somaliland can enhance its diplomatic reach and leverage collective bargaining power to its advantage. Should the opposition Waddani party unseat Kulmiye from power, we will adopt a progressive foreign policy that will forge balanced political, economic and security partnership with like minded states in the region and beyond.

Waddani looks to adopt progressive politics which will aim to improve the living conditions of our people through social, economic and political deforms based on shared vision. The reality is that Somaliland is a self governing state with a democratically elected government that has been in place since reasserting its independence in 1991.

Engagement with regional economic organisations like the East African Community presents significant opportunities for Somaliland and can facilitate economic benefits including access to larger markets, shared infrastructure projects, and increased foreign investment.

The commitment to innovative and forward-thinking strategies will undoubtedly be key in navigating the future of Somaliland’s international relations.

-The writer is former Somaliland foreign affairs minister and vice chair of Waddani Party

The evaluation and analysis of the elections held in Somaliland on 13 Nov 2024

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

A meeting to discuss the elections held in Somaliland on 13 Nov 2024, which have drawn the attention of the international community and the region to Somaliland, has been concluded in Boorama, the capital of Awdal region.

The meeting aimed at reviewing the elections organized by the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC), was held today at the Safari Hotel in Borama.

According to a brief report issued by the Somaliland Electrol Committee (NEC), the purpose of the meeting was to review and evaluate the Presidential and National Party elections held on November 13, 2024.

The meeting was focused on the analysis of the process of the elections, the challenges encountered, the lessons learned, and suggestions on the development of the future elections process for the Regional Councils and Representatives of the Republic of Somaliland.

Conclusion Among the important points discussed at the meeting were:

  1. Election Process: An assessment of how the election procedures and plans were implemented.

2 Challenges faced: An analysis of the challenges that have occurred and recommendations on how to prevent them in the future.

  1. Lessons learned: Insights and experiences gained from previous elections, which can guide the activities of the upcoming elections.

4 Future development: Recommendations on strengthening electoral planning and processes for effective and modern elections.

The chairman of the Somaliland Electoral Commission (NEC), Muse Hassan Yusuf, pointed out the importance of evaluating the elections held in Somaliland on 13 Nov 2024, saying that the recommendations from the meeting will contribute to the development of democracy in the Republic of Somaliland.

The conclusion of the meeting showed how the National Electrol Committee  (NEC) of the Republic of Somaliland is committed to continue the review and evaluation process, which earns the trust of the community, with the Somaliland Elections as a good examplein the Horn of Africa region, at the same time showing the maturity of democracy and the process that has attracted the attention of the world

The Illusion of Somali Unity- Prof Nassir H. Kahin

By
Goth Mohamed
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0

The recent discussions surrounding the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland have reignited outdated fantasies of Somali unity, exposing once again the deep chasm between political illusions and on-the-ground realities. While Mogadishu clings to the rhetoric of sovereignty and unity, Somaliland continues to thrive as a de facto independent state, deserving of recognition and respect for its achievements in democracy, governance, and stability. It is time to put aside the illusion of Somali unity and acknowledge the legitimacy of Somaliland’s independence.

Somaliland’s independence is not a modern invention but a reclamation of the sovereignty it was granted by British colonial authorities in 1960. After voluntarily uniting with Somalia in
pursuit of a pan-Somali dream, Somaliland was subjected to decades of systemic oppression, culminating in the genocidal violence of the 1980s under the regime of Siad Barre. Tens of thousands of Somalilanders were slaughtered, their towns bombed into rubble, and their rights trampled under the weight of southern domination. The scars of that brutal era are still fresh, but they also serve as a foundation for Somaliland’s decision to reclaim its independence in 1991.

For 34 years, Somaliland has functioned as an independent state in all but name, demonstrating time and again that it is not only viable but exemplary. While Somalia descends further into chaos, Somaliland has emerged as a beacon of democracy in the Horn of Africa. The recent elections on November 13, 2024, reaffirmed this commitment to democratic principles. Opposition parties secured presidential and parliamentary victories in an election process hailed by international observers as free, fair, and transparent. Ambassadors, high-ranking officials, and election monitors from around the globe commended Somaliland for its professionalism and integrity, providing yet another testament to its democratic credentials.

This starkly contrasts Somalia, which remains a failed state dependent on international military and financial support to maintain even the illusion of governance. Outside Mogadishu, Somalia is a fragmented mosaic of clan militias, al-Shabaab insurgents, and autonomous regions that openly defy federal authority. The very idea of Somali unity collapses under the weight of these realities. How can a state that cannot govern its own territory hope to unify with a region that has thrived independently for decades?

The MOU between Somaliland and Ethiopia reflects the shifting geopolitical realities of the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia, landlocked and reliant on neighboring states for access to the sea, has long sought alternative maritime outlets. For Somaliland, the partnership with Ethiopia is an opportunity to strengthen its economy, enhance security, and edge closer to international
recognition. The agreement, quietly supported by the United States and the United Kingdom,
acknowledges Somaliland’s strategic importance along the Red Sea and its potential as a
stabilizing force in the region.

Opposition to Somaliland’s recognition comes primarily from actors like Djibouti, Egypt, and
Turkey, whose motivations are rooted in self-interest rather than a genuine concern for Somali unity. Djibouti fears losing its monopoly on Ethiopia’s trade, while Egypt and Turkey seeSomaliland’s independence as a threat to their strategic leverage over Ethiopia. Eritrea  and other authoritarian regimes in the region view Somaliland’s democratic success as a dangerous precedent that could undermine their despotic rule.

Somaliland’s achievements, however, cannot be ignored. Unlike its neighbors, Somaliland hasdemonstrated an unwavering commitment to democracy, security, and governance. While Somalia struggles under a United Nations trusteeship that has spanned more than three decades, Somaliland has charted its own course, building institutions, holding elections, and ostering a sense of national unity that Mogadishu can only dream of.

The African Union must recognize Somaliland’s independence as a matter of principle and
pragmatism. Somaliland meets all the criteria for statehood under international law, including
defined borders, a functioning government, and a permanent population. Its recognition would not only validate the will of its people but also serve as a powerful signal that democracy and self-determination are valued in Africa.

Recognizing Somaliland would promote regional stability, offering a counterbalance to the chaos in Somalia and strengthening ties between the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. It would also unlock economic opportunities, attracting international investment and fostering development in a region with immense untapped potential. Somaliland’s partnership with Ethiopia, anchored by the MOU, is a step toward realizing this vision.

The argument for Somali unity is not only baseless but also dangerous. It perpetuates a cycle of denial and distraction that prevents real progress in the Horn of Africa. Somaliland’s
independence is not a threat but an opportunity—a chance to build a more stable, prosperous, and democratic region. It is time for the world, and particularly the African Union, to abandon the illusion of Somali unity and embrace the reality of Somaliland’s sovereignty.

Somaliland’s people have earned their independence through resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to their values. The international community must now honor that achievement by recognizing Somaliland for what it is: a sovereign, independent state

The illusion of Somali unity has persisted for too long. The time for Somaliland’s recognition is now.

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