MOGADISHU, Somalia – July 1, 2026 – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, attended the national flag-raising ceremony held tonight to mark the advent of July 1st—a date commemorating the independence of the country’s Southern regions from Italian administration, as well as the subsequent union with the Northern regions.
In his address, the President extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Somali people on this occasion, which holds profound significance for national sovereignty and unity. He emphasized that July 1st reflects the long and arduous struggle waged by Somali heroes in their quest for freedom and self-governance.
Units of the Somali National Army, carrying out their national duties, raised the Republic’s flag with full dignity and honour precisely at the stroke of midnight (12:00 AM)—the exact moment 66 years ago when the national flag was first hoisted over the capital, Mogadishu.
President Hassan Sheikh reaffirmed the critical importance of safeguarding national unity, solidarity, and the ongoing state-building process. He reminded the current generation of their profound responsibility to carry forward and advance the aspirations and legacy of the nation’s founding fathers.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT: The Distinct Independence Paths of Somaliland and Somalia (HIGHLIGHTED)
To fully understand the significance of July 1st, it is essential to distinguish the separate colonial histories and independence timelines of the two territories:
· SOMALILAND (Former British Protectorate):
· Colonial Power: United Kingdom.
· Independence Date: June 26, 1960 – Gained full sovereignty from Britain.
· Key Point: Somaliland became an independent state five days earlier than the South.
· SOMALIA (Former Italian Trust Territory):
· Colonial Power: Italy (under UN trusteeship after WWII).
· Independence Date: July 1, 1960 – Gained independence from Italian administration.
· Key Point: This is the date celebrated in tonight’s flag-raising ceremony—Southern Somalia’s own independence day.
· THE VOLUNTARY UNION:
· On July 1, 1960 – immediately after the South’s independence – the newly independent State of Somaliland (North) voluntarily united with the newly independent Trust Territory of Somalia (South) to form the Somali Republic.
· Thus, while July 1st is officially the independence day for the South, the unification of the two territories also occurred on this same date, making it a dual milestone. · (Note: The former British Somaliland region unilaterally declared independence again in 1991 as the “Republic of Somaliland,” though it remains internationally unrecognized).
The Somaliland Ministry of Defence recently participated in a high-level international symposium on military anti-corruption, hosted at the UK Defence Academy in Shrivenham. The summit was exclusively dedicated to exploring strategies for preventing, countering, and mitigating corruption within armed forces.
Representing the Ministry, Advisor Farah Haji Ahmed Xaabuush joined delegates from 24 nations to exchange global best practices for bolstering transparency, accountability, and good governance across defense sectors. During the conference, the UK government formally reaffirmed its continued support for Somaliland, pledging specialized training and capacity-building initiatives designed to wholly eradicate corruption within the military.
This engagement marks a significant milestone in deepening Somaliland’s international cooperation. The knowledge and frameworks acquired will significantly accelerate the National Armed Forces’ ongoing efforts to establish transparent, highly capable, and accountable defense institutions.
Chairman Honorable Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan delivers historic address to 347 delegates as party positions itself as disciplined opposition force ready to lead
HARGEISA, Somaliland – The Central Committee of the ruling WADDANI party officially opened its 5th General Assembly today in Hargeisa, with 347 members in attendance for what party leaders are calling a historic session marking a new chapter in the party’s development.
The meeting, held in the Republic of Somaliland’s capital, is being observed by the Political Associations Registration and National Parties Approval Committee. Sister national parties KULMIYE and KAAH have also been invited to attend the proceedings.
“Peace and Prosperity” Adopted as Core Principle
In a landmark moment during the assembly, the Central Council overwhelmingly approved the WADDANI Party’s Political Principles, with Chairman Hon. Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan declaring that the party’s priority is “Peace and Prosperity.”
“The Political Principles of the WADDANI party are Peace and Prosperity,” Chairman Hassan told the gathering, receiving a standing ovation from delegates.
The Chairman emphasized that these principles are not merely slogans but represent the party’s foundational commitment to the people of Somaliland.
A Vision Realized: Building a National Party
Reflecting on the party’s journey, Chairman Hassan paid tribute to the President’s founding vision of creating a truly NATIONAL party—one in which every citizen stands equal.
“Today, that vision is reality — a party where healthy competition thrives, yet unity remains unbroken,” he stated.
The Chairman extended a warm welcome to recent political defections and new members, making special mention of “my friend Qabyo-tire and his team.”
“Just as we were welcomed yesterday, and as we became leaders of the party, so too can you become leaders within it,” Hassan added, signaling an inclusive approach to party leadership.
Ready to Lead
In remarks that drew sustained applause, Chairman Hassan drew a sharp distinction between the party’s work and that of the government:
“While you were busy running the government, we were busy building the party.”
He detailed the party’s organizational achievements, including establishing proper headquarters, investing in grassroots outreach, and building a disciplined, functioning opposition force.
“We’ve invested time in listening to and serving the people, and worked tirelessly to make WADDANI a functioning, disciplined opposition force ready to lead,” he declared.
International Engagement and Bridge-Building
The Chairman revealed that WADDANI is actively building bridges with political movements across the globe to exchange ideas and share experiences.
“We’ve already begun working visits across Africa, engaging with some of the continent’s oldest and most established parties,” Hassan said. “The journey of knowledge knows no borders.”
Gratitude and Unity
In his closing remarks, the Chairman honored the party’s loyal supporters who have made the party’s success possible, while welcoming new members into the fold.
“We are not forgetting our roots, but celebrating that more of our people are coming together, united and satisfied with the vision of WADDAN,” he said.
The Chairman extended appreciation to members of the Central Council, distinguished guests, the media, and everyone who contributed to the smooth and orderly conduct of the conference.
Historic Significance
Political observers note that this 5th session represents a significant milestone as WADDANI continues to position itself as a formidable political force in Somaliland. The unanimous approval of the party’s political principles demonstrates internal cohesion and strategic clarity ahead of future political contests.
As the Chairman concluded his address, delegates erupted in the party’s rallying cry:
“WADDANI victory, Somaliland victory!
The 5th session of the WADDANI Central Committee continues through the week, with agenda items including organizational reforms, election preparedness, and further policy discussions.
MOGADISHU, July 1, 2026 – The Somali Future Council, a civil society advocacy group, has issued a sharply worded statement marking the 66th anniversary of Somalia’s independence, accusing the outgoing administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of deepening political divisions and jeopardizing recent security gains in the fight against ISIS.
In a press release dated June 30, the Council congratulated Somalis at home and abroad on the anniversary of the July 1, 1960 union of the northern and southern regions. However, it noted that six decades later, the founding vision of a sovereign, democratic, and united Somalia “has yet to be fully realized.”
The statement cited persistent challenges including political fragmentation, weak state institutions, clan hostilities, terrorist activity, foreign interference, constitutional deadlock, and pervasive political mistrust. But the Council reserved its harshest criticism for the current federal government, alleging that President Mohamud’s administration is actively worsening these problems rather than resolving them.
“The Council strongly condemns the use of military and security agencies to incite conflicts and political rivalries against Federal Member States and opposition leaders, to serve personal interests,” the statement read.
Particular concern was directed at the semi-autonomous Puntland State, where the Council alleges that militias are being mobilized and security tensions deliberately stoked by Mogadishu. The timing, the Council argued, is especially damaging: Puntland has recently achieved significant operational successes against ISIS forces, with considerable loss of life and resources.
“Stoking further conflict and security instability jeopardizes these gains and undermines the joint efforts of Puntland and the international community in combating ISIS terrorism,” the statement said.
The Somali Future Council, based in Mogadishu, called for renewed commitment to the rule of law, inclusive dialogue, and the preservation of hard-won security progress across the country.
HARGEISA – The 5th Central Council meeting of the WADDANI Party officially opened this morning in Hargeisa, drawing top party leadership and government officials to discuss the party’s vision and the nation’s progress since assuming power.
The gathering was attended by the President of the Republic of Somaliland and founder of the party, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro), alongside WADDANI Party Chairman H.E. Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, senior party leadership, Central Council members, and other distinguished guests.
President Cirro Endorses Chairman Hirsi as Successor
In a historic address to the 5th Central Council, President Cirro made a clear declaration regarding his political future and the party’s leadership transition. He announced that upon completion of his constitutionally permitted term, the party’s chairman, Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, would be his designated successor.
“When I complete the term permitted by the Constitution, the candidate who will succeed me is Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan,” President Cirro stated firmly.
The President emphasized the importance of institutional continuity within the party, noting that WADDANI has established a clear distinction between the roles of Party Chairman and Presidential Candidate—a pioneering step among Somaliland’s political parties.
Recognition of Previous Administration’s Efforts
In a gesture of political unity, President Cirro acknowledged the efforts of former President Muse Bihi Abdi in advancing Somaliland’s quest for international recognition. He noted that while Muse Bihi had invested significant effort toward this goal, it was under his administration that recognition was ultimately achieved.
“My friend Muse Bihi, you worked hard to bring recognition to Somaliland, but today it is I, as the President who succeeded you, who has brought it,” President Cirro said. “And today I tell my friend Muse: now that you have accepted this matter, do not turn away from it.”
Strong Stance on Jerusalem Embassy
President Cirro took a firm position regarding the recently opened Somaliland Embassy in Jerusalem, stating that anyone opposing the embassy’s establishment in the holy city is fundamentally opposed to Somaliland’s recognition by Israel.
“Whoever says ‘I oppose the opening of an embassy in Jerusalem’ is essentially saying they oppose Somaliland’s recognition,” the President declared.
He further emphasized that “the decision to open the embassy in Jerusalem is correct and will not be reversed,” reinforcing his administration’s commitment to this diplomatic milestone.
Reflection on Electoral Victory
Reflecting on the 2024 presidential election, President Cirro described himself as the “player you all trusted to compete in the 2024 presidential race, and the people of Somaliland accepted and voted for.” He expressed gratitude to the party members and the broader populace for their support and confidence in his leadership.
Commitment to Constitutional Duties
President Cirro underscored his constitutional obligation to serve every citizen of Somaliland, regardless of political affiliation. He stated: “I am the President of the Republic of Somaliland, and I bear a constitutional duty to serve every citizen. As President, I accept the responsibility that comes with this position, and I am prepared to address issues to the best of my ability.”
Recognition of Women’s Role
In his address, President Cirro paid special tribute to the women of Somaliland, describing them as “the strongest pillar upon which the WADDANI Party is built. They are the ones who organized, systematized, and devoted themselves fully.”
Vice President Calls for Accountability
Vice President Mohamed Ali Abdi delivered a significant message emphasizing the need for accountability between the party and the government. He stressed that the WADDANI Party must hold the government it produced accountable for its promises and performance.
“The party and the government must account for the success achieved and the trust that was given,” Vice President Abdi said. “The people are watching what the government has accomplished and what was expected of it. The party has a responsibility to hold accountable the government it established, and it would lack dignity if it does not.”
Party Leadership Structure Pioneering Somaliland Politics
The Minister of the Presidency and Secretary-General of WADDANI highlighted that his party is the first in Somaliland’s political landscape to clearly distinguish between the Party Chairman and the Presidential Candidate—a structural innovation that demonstrates institutional maturity.
He also noted that WADDANI is the first political party in Somaliland to establish a clear political identity and ideology, setting it apart from other parties in the country.
Party Deputy Chairman Calls for Unity
Deputy Chairman of WADDANI, Abubakar Abdirahman Good, called upon the people of Somaliland to stand together behind the nation’s development and defend the cause of recognition.
“We must not turn against each other. We must consolidate the success of recognition and stand united around it,” he urged.
Good, who previously served as Minister of Water Resource Development, warned that since Somaliland achieved recognition, adversaries have emerged to oppose it, making it imperative to protect the gains the government and party have made.
Minister Urges Patience Among Party Members
Minister of Parliamentary Relations and Constitutional Affairs, Ahmed Aw-Dahir Hassan, addressed party members who have not yet been appointed to government positions, urging them to demonstrate patience and understanding.
“Chairmanships do not accommodate everyone. Many people who have worked for the party, sacrificing both life and wealth, may not receive the positions the President appoints,” he said. “The essence is not that everyone who participated in the struggle gets something. Those who have not been appointed and are complaining about the party must exercise patience.”
The Minister explained that the purpose of political struggle was not individual gain but ensuring that principles and values prevail.
HARGEISA, Somaliland – The two-day Judicial Council Conference of the Republic of Somaliland drew to a close today with a stirring and statesmanlike address from the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Honorable Prof. Aden Haji Ali Ahmed. The landmark gathering, which convened the highest echelons of the country’s legal establishment, concluded with a sweeping commitment to modernize the judiciary, deepen institutional accountability, and expand access to justice for all Somalilanders.
The conference—attended by senior judges, public prosecutors, legal practitioners, civil society organizations, and international observers—served as a vital platform for diagnosing the systemic ailments afflicting the justice sector and charting a clear, actionable roadmap for reform. Over two days of intensive deliberation, participants dissected everything from case backlog and courtroom infrastructure to legal aid provision and judicial ethics.
Chief Justice: “The Judiciary is the Conscience of the Nation”
In his closing oration, Chief Justice Aden Haji Ali Ahmed delivered what many delegates described as one of the most consequential speeches of his tenure. With rhetorical force and moral clarity, he framed the judiciary not merely as a government branch, but as the conscience of the nation—the ultimate guarantor of rights, freedoms, and the social contract between the state and its citizens.
“Justice is not an abstract virtue reserved for textbooks and legal treatises,” the Chief Justice declared. “It is the living pulse of our democracy—the bedrock upon which our stability, our prosperity, and our shared future are built. Without a strong, independent, and trustworthy judiciary, there can be no lasting peace, no genuine development, and no faith in the institutions that bind us together as one people.”
He reminded the assembled legal community that the power vested in their robes carries an equally profound burden of responsibility. “Every ruling we issue, every case we adjudicate, every life we touch through our decisions—these are not mere professional obligations. They are sacred trusts placed in us by the people of Somaliland. We must honor that trust with unwavering integrity, relentless diligence, and an unshakable commitment to truth and fairness.”
A Blueprint for Transformative Change
The Chief Justice used his platform to unveil a comprehensive reform package that signals a decisive break from past inertia. While acknowledging the progress made in recent years—including the establishment of specialized courts and the gradual expansion of judicial services—he conceded that much remains to be done to meet the rising expectations of a rapidly evolving society.
Among the flagship initiatives announced were:
1. Digital Transformation of Court Operations
A nationwide rollout of electronic case management systems is set to begin in the coming months, aimed at drastically reducing case processing times, eliminating manual record-keeping errors, and enhancing public transparency. The new digital platform will allow litigants and legal representatives to track case progress online, file documents remotely, and receive real-time updates—a move expected to significantly curb the chronic delays that have long plagued the system.
2. Court Infrastructure Expansion
A major capital investment program will see the construction and rehabilitation of courthouses across all regions of Somaliland, with particular attention to underserved rural districts where citizens often travel long distances to access basic judicial services. The new facilities will be designed to meet international standards, including separate chambers for family and juvenile cases, accessible entrances for persons with disabilities, and secure holding areas for detainees.
3. Judicial Training and Professional Development
In partnership with regional and international legal institutions, the Supreme Court will launch an ambitious continuing education program for judges, prosecutors, and court administrators. The curriculum will cover emerging areas of law, human rights standards, forensic evidence handling, and judicial ethics—ensuring that Somaliland’s legal professionals remain equipped to handle increasingly complex cases in a globalized world.
4. Strengthened Anti-Corruption and Accountability Mechanisms
Recognizing that public trust hinges on perceived integrity, the Chief Justice announced the creation of an independent judicial oversight unit with the authority to investigate complaints of misconduct, enforce codes of conduct, and recommend disciplinary action against errant officials. “Impunity has no place in our courts,” he stressed. “Those who wear the robe must be beyond reproach, or they must be removed.”
5. Expanded Legal Aid and Access to Justice
Building on recommendations from the Human Rights Commission and SOWLA, the Chief Justice pledged to scale up state-funded legal aid services for vulnerable populations, including women, children, internally displaced persons, and low-income litigants. He called on development partners and the private bar to collaborate in establishing a sustainable legal aid fund that would ensure no citizen is denied justice due to financial incapacity.
A Call for Collective Responsibility
Throughout his address, the Chief Justice emphasized that judicial reform cannot succeed in isolation. He appealed to all branches of government—the executive, the legislature, and local administrations—to honor their respective roles in upholding the rule of law. He specifically urged lawmakers to expedite the passage of pending legislation that would strengthen judicial independence, protect whistleblowers, and codify the rights of accused persons.
He also extended a hand to civil society organizations, academic institutions, and the media, describing them as indispensable partners in the quest for a more just society. “A free press that scrutinizes our work, a vibrant civil society that amplifies the voices of the marginalized, and a legal academy that produces thoughtful, principled graduates—these are not threats to judicial power. They are its greatest allies,” he observed
Reactions from Delegates and Observers
The Chief Justice’s closing remarks drew widespread acclaim from conference participants. Advocate Deeqa of SOWLA described the address as “historic and deeply inspiring,” while Advocate Mohamed Mahmoud of SOLLA praised the Chief Justice’s “Candid acknowledgment of systemic shortcomings and his clear-eyed vision for corrective action.”
International observers present at the conference noted that Somaliland’s judiciary continues to punch above its weight, despite operating in a resource-constrained environment and without formal international recognition. They commended the country’s determination to build robust institutions from the ground up, rooted in local traditions yet aligned with global best practices.
Looking Ahead: From Words to Action
As the conference concluded, delegates expressed cautious optimism that the ambitious reform agenda outlined by the Chief Justice would translate into tangible improvements on the ground. However, many acknowledged that the true test lies in implementation—securing adequate budgetary allocations, overcoming bureaucratic resistance, and sustaining political will over the long haul.
The Chief Justice himself struck a note of urgency in his parting words: “Let us not mistake fine speeches for genuine progress. The people of Somaliland are watching, and they are waiting. They do not need promises—they need results. They do not need rhetoric—they need justice. And it is our sacred duty, together, to deliver it.”
With that, he gaveled the conference to a close, leaving delegates with a clear mandate and an unmistakable sense of historic opportunity.
Hargeisa, Somaliland – The national conference of Somaliland’s judicial institutions concluded this week with a series of landmark reports from the country’s leading legal and oversight bodies, underscoring ongoing efforts to strengthen the rule of law, accountability, and labor justice.
The closing ceremony was marked by addresses from senior officials who presented detailed assessments of their respective mandates over the past term.
Ministry of Justice Highlights Institutional Coordination
The Director General of the Ministry of Justice, who also serves as a member of the Judicial Commission, addressed the assembly, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to judicial independence and inter-agency collaboration. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts between the executive and judiciary in ensuring fair and timely access to justice for all citizens.
Attorney General Pledges Vigorous Prosecution Oversight
The Attorney General of Somaliland delivered a keynote speech at the closing session, outlining his office’s achievements and future priorities. He stressed the critical role of public prosecution in safeguarding state interests and protecting citizens’ rights, while calling for enhanced resources to tackle complex criminal and civil cases.
In a particularly significant presentation, the Chairman of the Employees and Employers Grievance Hearing Committee, Lawyer Abdiqani Salebaan Mahmoud (Dacwi), submitted a comprehensive report on the committee’s caseload over the review period.
According to the report, the committee resolved a substantial number of labor disputes, ranging from wrongful termination and wage disputes to breach of employment contracts. Notably, the Chairman detailed the total number of cases handled, the outcomes achieved, and the specific rulings that were upheld or overturned by the Supreme Court upon appeal. The data revealed a high rate of judicial affirmation, signaling consistency between the committee’s decisions and the higher court’s interpretation of labor law.
Conference Underscores Judicial Reforms
The three-day gathering, which brought together judges, prosecutors, legal scholars, and ministry officials, served as a platform to review the performance of the judiciary, identify bottlenecks, and chart a roadmap for reforms. Key themes included case backlog reduction, digitalization of court records, and the enhancement of legal aid services.
In their closing remarks, all speakers reiterated their collective commitment to upholding the constitution and delivering justice impartially, while acknowledging the challenges that remain—particularly in the areas of infrastructure, staffing, and public legal awareness.
The conference concluded with a resolution to implement the recommendations presented in the various reports, with a special focus on strengthening the grievance committee’s capacity to handle the growing number of employment-related disputes in the private and public sectors.
The Somaliland Lawyers Association (SOLLA), represented by Advocate Mohamed Mahmoud, presented a comprehensive assessment of the current state of the judiciary. SOLLA raised particular concerns regarding the functioning of the Judicial Commission, the transparency of judicial appointments, and the enforcement of professional conduct standards.
Advocate Mahmoud emphasized that weak oversight mechanisms and ambiguous regulatory frameworks have contributed to inconsistencies in judicial decision-making and a perception of impunity among some legal practitioners. He further noted that the existing rules governing court administration and case allocation are often applied unevenly, undermining public confidence in the system.
To remedy these issues, SOLLA proposed a sweeping reform package that includes:
· Revision of judicial codes and procedural rules to ensure clarity and uniformity.
· Strengthening of accountability bodies within the judiciary to investigate misconduct and enforce ethical standards.
· Establishment of performance benchmarks for judges and court staff to improve service delivery.
· Enhanced training programs on legal ethics, human rights, and modern case management for all judicial officers.
“The time for incremental change has passed,” Advocate Mahmoud declared. “We need a fundamental restructuring of how justice is administered and how judicial officials are held to account. Only then can we restore the judiciary’s moral authority and ensure that every citizen receives a fair hearing.”
The Somaliland Women Lawyers Association (SOWLA), represented by Advocate Deeqa, took the floor to highlight the vital role that female legal professionals play in the country’s justice sector. SOWLA has been at the forefront of providing pro bono legal assistance to vulnerable groups, particularly women and children facing gender-based violence, inheritance disputes, and family law cases.
Advocate Deeqa noted that SOWLA is also actively engaged in mentorship programs and capacity-building initiatives aimed at elevating the quality of female law graduates and increasing their representation in the judiciary and legal practice. Despite these efforts, she pointed to two persistent obstacles:
· Chronic financial constraints – limited funding restricts the scope and reach of SOWLA’s legal aid services and advocacy campaigns.
· Lack of dedicated office and resource facilities – without proper physical infrastructure, the organization struggles to operate effectively and serve clients in a confidential and professional environment.
She appealed to the government and international partners for increased financial support and logistical assistance to enable SOWLA to expand its impact.
Hargeisa – Presenting before the Judicial Conference, the Somaliland Human Rights Commission (HRC)—represented by attorney Ms. Raaqiya—detailed its ongoing legal aid initiatives for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and economically disadvantaged citizens. While reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to bridging the justice gap, Ms. Raqiya delivered a sobering assessment of the barriers that continue to undermine fair and timely legal recourse.
Among the most critical challenges cited:
· Excessive case backlogs that stretch court proceedings over years, often exhausting plaintiffs and defendants alike.
· Prohibitively high litigation costs, which effectively price out low-income citizens from seeking redress.
· Prolonged pretrial detention, with many suspects languishing in custody without formal charges or trial dates—a practice that contravenes both domestic law and international human rights standards.
· Dilapidated and inaccessible court infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, where citizens must travel great distances to access basic judicial services.
To address these obstacles, the HRC put forward a suite of sustainable recommendations, including the digitization of court records to streamline case management, the expansion of legal aid clinics into underserved districts, and urgent investments in modern, accessible courthouse facilities. The Commission warned that without immediate action, public disillusionment with the judiciary would only deepen.
