Top representatives of the Somaliland National Party “Waddani” today(Tuesday) met with members of the international community and diplomats based in Nairobi, the Kenyan Capital.
Today’s meeting comes as a follow-up of other meetings the party had previously held with the international community and is meant to pave the way for fostering a close working relationship between Somaliland and our global partners.
Waddani as a political party in the meeting intended to provide a high-level forum to strengthen the current cooperation and development and discuss issues of mutual interest. Of course, the seven years that this regime ruled did not only alienate the people of the country, it also alienated our partners.
The Waddani officials during the talks with Somaliland international partners ways to support democracy and development. Officials said they deeply discussed the upcoming presidential election expected to take place on 13 November this year.
The diplomats promised continued partners’ support in the country’s democratization process as long as the road to the elections was cleared and discerned gaps filled.
“As long-term partners in Somaliland’s democratization process we are looking forward to continuing our support and engagement during these next important milestones,” the partners reiterated.
Mr. Jama Ayaanle Feyte is “WADDANI” Somaliland National Party Shadow Secretary in charge of Coordination with United Nations and International Organizations
The Republic of Somaliland’s quest for international recognition and potential claims against Somalia represent a complex tapestry of historical, legal, and geopolitical factors. As the region navigates ongoing tensions and diplomatic maneuvers, Somaliland’s case for independence and compensation has garnered increasing attention on the global stage.
The roots of the current situation stretch back to the colonial era when Somaliland existed as a British protectorate from 1884 to 1960. In contrast, Somalia was under Italian rule during this period. On June 26, 1960, Somaliland gained independence from Britain, only to join with the former Italian Somalia five days later to form the Somali Republic – and in preparation for what was to be called the Greater Somali Republic uniting all Somali-inhabited territories.
Until 1960, Somaliland and Somalia had no shared history or interaction. The period from 1960 to 1991 was the only time they were forcibly united, without Somaliland’s full consent—the senior partner in that union.
Crucially, a Somaliland legislature or a signature by its leaders ever ratified the Act of Union that Somalia claims formalized this merger, creating a significant legal ambiguity that underlies much of the current debate. The subsequent years saw the rise of Siad Barre’s dictatorship in Somalia, which ruled from 1969 to 1991. Barre’s regime was particularly oppressive towards Somaliland, culminating in a brutal civil war that left deep scars on the region.
Early Signs of Discord: The 1961 Referendum and Coup Attempt
The seeds of Somaliland’s discontent with the union were sown almost immediately after its formation. Two pivotal events in 1961 clearly demonstrated the region’s early misgivings about the merger with Somalia, foreshadowing the decades of conflict and separation to come.
In June 1961, a constitutional referendum was held to ratify the provisional constitution of the Somali Republic. The results of this referendum are telling: while the south overwhelmingly approved the constitution, the northern regions (former British Somaliland) largely rejected it. Since the fate of the then northern regions was to be decided in the referendum, the relatively more populous south should not have been allowed to vote.
This stark regional divide in the referendum results clearly indicated that the people of Somaliland were far from unified in their support for the union. The low turnout and near-even split in votes suggested significant reservations about the merger and the new constitutional arrangement.
Perhaps even more revealing of Somaliland’s dissatisfaction was the attempted co
Hassan-Kayd at a later date
up that occurred in December 1961, mere months after the referendum. A group of Somaliland military officers, led by Hassan Kayd Walanwal, staged an uprising in Hargeisa, the capital of the former British Somaliland.
The coup plotters aimed to dissolve the union and restore Somaliland’s independence. While the attempt was ultimately unsuccessful, it highlighted the depth of discontent among Somalilanders with the new political arrangement. The swift emergence of this separatist sentiment, less than two years after the union’s formation, is a crucial piece of historical evidence supporting Somaliland’s case for independence.
The coup attempt was quickly suppressed by forces loyal to the central government in Mogadishu, but its occurrence sent a clear message about the fragility of the union and the distinct political aspirations of the Somaliland region.
Both the referendum results and the attempted coup of 1961 serve as critical historical markers in Somaliland’s narrative of independence. They demonstrate that from the very outset of the union, there was significant opposition to the merger among Somalilanders. These events provide historical context for Somaliland’s current claims, showing that the desire for self-determination has deep roots, predating even the atrocities of the Barre regime.
In the context of international law and the principle of self-determination, these early expressions of dissent strengthen Somaliland’s argument that the union was problematic from its inception. They offer concrete evidence that the merger was not universally embraced by the people of Somaliland, lending weight to the argument that the region’s current push for recognition is not merely a recent development, but the culmination of a long-standing desire for independence.
General Morgan
Unconscionable Brutality
The Siad Barre regime’s oppression of Somaliland reached unconscionable levels of brutality, particularly targeting the Isaaq clan. At the height of this campaign, there is evidence of a systematic attempt to eradicate the Isaaq people entirely. This genocidal intent is starkly illustrated by a chilling communiqué from the era.
A letter, written by the commanding military ruler of the northern regions (as Somaliland was then designated) – dubbed the ‘Letter of Death’, addressed to his father-in-law, President Siad Barre, proposed a horrifying strategy. The memo (parts of which are shown below) outlined a plan to arm clans allied with the military regime, pitting them against the Isaaq. In a macabre incentive, these clans were to be promised the lands of the Isaaq as a reward for their participation in what amounted to ethnic cleansing.
This document serves as damning evidence of the regime’s willingness to orchestrate mass atrocities and demographic engineering in its attempt to crush Somaliland’s spirit and any aspirations for self-determination. The planned obliteration of an entire clan group underscores the depths of the human rights abuses perpetrated by the Barre regime. It provides a stark illustration of why many in Somaliland view a return to union with Somalia as both untenable and deeply traumatic. It appears, though, that the remnants of that regime – left unpunished – interpret the gesture as a weakness on the part of Somaliland, and that misdeeds are not laid aside at the moment but forgotten and unrecorded. Groups and movements are rallying around false causes to try for another kill – this time joined openly by countries that approved but did not conspicuously come to the open in the ‘kill but the crows’ ’80s.
Following the collapse of Barre’s government, Somaliland unilaterally declared independence on May 18, 1991. Since then, it has functioned as a de facto independent state, complete with its own government, currency, and democratic institutions.
Principles of Self-Determination
Self-determination is a principle deeply embedded in international law, enshrined in the United Nations Charter and reinforced by various human rights instruments. The legal framework surrounding self-determination provides a crucial foundation for assessing claims of statehood, particularly in the context of the Republic of Somaliland’s aspirations. The Montevideo Convention outlines criteria for statehood, including a defined territory and a permanent population with which Somaliland complies. Moreover, the examination of past United Nations initiatives, like the Council for Namibia, demonstrates that international law can support the legitimacy of aspiring states in their quests for recognition and self-governance. Somaliland’s claim for independence thus aligns with these established principles, underscoring a pathway not only to statehood but also to potential reparations for enduring injustices.
Furthermore, Somaliland boasts internationally recognized boundaries with all its neighbouring countries—Somalia, Djibouti, and Ethiopia. In contrast, Somalia lacks such clearly defined borders. Its only internationally recognized boundary is with Somaliland and Kenya. Somalia shares only a dotted, provincial line with Ethiopia—the longest of the three borders.
Additional Arguments for Somaliland
Somaliland’s case for independence rests on several key legal pillars. First and foremost is the unratified nature of the 1960 union, which provides a strong argument that the merger was never legally binding in the first place. This is bolstered by the principle of self-determination under international law, particularly given Somaliland’s distinct colonial history and its current de facto independence.
The region’s effective self-governance since 1991 further strengthens its case, demonstrating its capacity to function as an independent state. Historical precedents, such as the dissolution of other voluntary unions like Senegambia and Egypt-Syria, offer additional support for Somaliland’s position.
Moreover, the human rights violations committed by the Barre regime against Somaliland’s population could be grounds for arguing that the union was invalidated by these actions, providing both a moral and legal basis for separation. More than 200 000 people either died or were maimed or were never accounted for dead or alive and more than 300 000 more fled the aerial bombardments and indiscriminate massacres of the army. At least two of its major cities were left in shambles.
2005 AU Mission Findings
A significant milestone in Somaliland’s quest for recognition came in 2005 when the African Union (AU) sent a fact-finding mission to the region. The mission’s report acknowledged several key points that lend credence to Somaliland’s case.
The AU mission recognized that Somaliland’s situation was unique and did not fit the typical narrative of secession. They noted the region’s relative stability and functioning governance structures, starkly contrasting the ongoing instability in much of Somalia. The mission also acknowledged Somaliland’s distinct colonial history and the circumstances surrounding the 1960 union.
While stopping short of explicitly endorsing independence, the mission suggested that the AU should “find a special method of dealing with this outstanding case,” indicating a recognition of Somaliland’s unique status and the need for a tailored approach to resolving the dispute.
Shared Resources and Economic Claims
Beyond the question of independence, Somaliland has potential grounds for significant economic claims against Somalia. These include compensation for shared natural resources, particularly oil and gas reserves in disputed border regions, as well as maritime resources such as fishing rights and potential offshore deposits.
Somaliland could also seek compensation for historically shared infrastructure developed during the union period, a share of international aid and debt relief provided to Somalia as a whole, and damages for economic opportunities lost due to lack of international recognition.
Recent Developments and Threats
The situation has been further complicated by recent developments. In January 2024, Somaliland signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ethiopia, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for potential recognition. This move has escalated tensions with Somalia.
In response, Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ma’allin Fiqi, has reportedly made threats regarding regional destabilization and support for insurgents against Ethiopia. These statements could potentially strengthen Somaliland’s case, serving as evidence of Somalia’s hostility and unwillingness to peacefully resolve the dispute. The same Fiqi also openly admitted to how Somalia bankrolled and militarily supported the Las Anod insurgency – which has since then become a no-man’s land and a haven for extremists and Shabab training camps. He said Somalia wished to derail an international momentum leading to a possible formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland sooner than they expected which obviously scared the frail Mogadishu administration.
A critical yet often overlooked aspect of the Somaliland-Somalia dispute is the role of international aid and peacekeeping efforts. While intended to promote stability and development in the region, these initiatives have had the unintended consequence of potentially exacerbating tensions. The substantial financial and military support provided to the Federal Government of Somalia, ostensibly to combat extremism and build state capacity, may, in fact, be enabling Somalia’s ability to maintain its hostility towards Somaliland’s independence aspirations.
There are concerns that some of these resources are being diverted to support regional destabilization efforts and to extremists such as the al-Shabaab whose operations Somalia is suspected of condoning, especially those that served its purposes. More alarmingly, there have been allegations of indirect cooperation between elements within the Somali government and Al-Shabaab, the militant group that continues to pose a significant threat to regional security. This complex dynamic suggests that international aid, rather than solely promoting peace and stability, may inadvertently be fueling Somalia’s capacity to resist Somaliland’s independence claims and potentially support proxy conflicts in the region.
This situation underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to international engagement in the Horn of Africa, one that takes into account the intricate political dynamics and avoids inadvertently strengthening actors that may be working against regional stability and the peaceful resolution of the Somaliland-Somalia dispute.
International Conscience Must Resurface
Given the escalating tensions and threats to regional stability, the international community must reassess its approach to Somalia and Somaliland. The global powers that have invested heavily in Somalia’s peace process must now consider more stringent measures to ensure that their efforts and financial commitments are not inadvertently fueling conflict. Moreover, it is high time for the international community to address its long-neglected support for Somaliland’s sovereignty and the rights of its people.
A recalibration of international policy could include the reimposition of targeted arms embargoes to limit the potential for military escalation. Additionally, the implementation of smart sanctions focused on individuals within the Somalia government who have been identified as obstacles to peace or who have made inflammatory statements threatening regional stability should be considered.
Furthermore, international aid and support should be conditioned on concrete steps towards peaceful dialogue and conflict resolution, particularly regarding the status of Somaliland. This approach should be coupled with increased scrutiny of how international funds are being utilized, ensuring they are not diverted towards destabilizing activities.
Crucially, the international community must revisit its stance on Somaliland’s sovereignty. It is worth noting that upon its independence in 1960, Somaliland was recognized by over 35 countries. This historical fact, combined with Somaliland’s sustained stability and democratic governance, calls for a renewed examination of its case for recognition. The international community has an obligation to honor the aspirations and rights of the Somaliland people, who have maintained a de facto independent state for over three decades.
These measures would send a clear message that the international community’s tolerance has limits and that actions jeopardizing hard-won peace will have consequences. By taking a firmer stance and addressing the long-overlooked issue of Somaliland’s status, the global community can realign its substantial investments in the region with the original goals of promoting peace, stability, and economic development for all people in the Horn of Africa.
This approach would demonstrate a commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict, ensuring that international support truly benefits the entire region, and recognizing the legitimate aspirations of the Somaliland people. It’s time for the international community to correct its historical oversight and engage meaningfully with Somaliland’s quest for recognition, thereby contributing to a more just and stable regional order.
Legal Avenues and Potential Outcomes
Several legal avenues exist for Somaliland to pursue its claims. These include bringing a case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), although this would likely require Somalia’s consent or UN involvement. Alternatively, an international arbitration tribunal could be established to address specific claims and compensation.
Mediation by international bodies such as the AU or UN is another possibility, as are direct negotiations between Somaliland and Somalia, potentially with international support.
Potential Compensation and Damages
If successful in its legal claims, Somaliland could potentially seek a range of outcomes. These include formal recognition of its independence and sovereign status, confirmation of its internationally demarcated borders, and economic compensation for shared resources and lost opportunities.
Somaliland might also pursue reparations for human rights violations committed during the Barre regime, for the loss it incurred by not equally sharing power and resources, for foreign reserves, and for the blocked development for the past 64 years, as well as international support in gaining wider recognition and assistance.
Finally, Somaliland’s case for independence and compensation from Somalia is built on a strong foundation of historical and legal arguments. The unratified union, distinct colonial history, effective self-governance since 1991, and human rights violations during the Barre regime all contribute to its position. Recent developments, including Somalia’s reported threats, may further bolster Somaliland’s claims.
Decisive Action
The time has come for Somaliland to mount a more aggressive diplomatic and legal offensive to break the 34-year stalemate that has held its people in limbo. The weight of historical evidence, legal arguments, and moral justification all stand firmly on Somaliland’s side. The region’s stability, democratic governance, and resilience in the face of international neglect only serve to underscore the legitimacy of its cause. However, patience and quiet diplomacy have yielded limited results.
Somaliland must now leverage every available international forum, from the United Nations to regional bodies and international courts, to forcefully present its case for recognition. It should actively seek out allies willing to champion its cause on the global stage and consider innovative legal strategies to challenge its current status. The people of Somaliland have endured decades of economic hardship and missed opportunities due to their lack of international recognition. They can ill afford to wait any longer for the world to take notice.
Somaliland can work to end the cycle of underdevelopment and economic stagnation that has resulted from its unrecognized status by, for instance, adopting a more assertive stance. It’s time to break free from the constraints of diplomatic inertia and pursue a bold, multi-faceted campaign for recognition. This approach should include not only traditional diplomatic channels but also increased engagement with international media, civil society organizations, and academic institutions to build a groundswell of global support.
For Somaliland, the path forward remains complex, given the political sensitivities involved and the lack of clear international mechanisms for resolving issues of this kind. As the situation continues to evolve, it will require careful navigation of legal, diplomatic, and geopolitical considerations to reach a resolution that addresses the legitimate concerns and aspirations of the people of Somaliland.
The stakes are too high and the injustice too great for Somaliland to continue accepting the status quo. It must seize this moment to demand its rightful place on the world stage, secure its independence, and unlock the full potential of its people. Only through such decisive action can Somaliland hope to overcome the obstacles of the past and forge a path towards a prosperous, recognized future.
The Minister of Energy and Minerals Hon. Abdillahi Farah Abdi, while flanked by the Deputy Minister of Energy and Minerals Saeed Ahmed Jibril and the Director General of the Ministry Mohamed Osman Saeed received the Emirates Industrial Laboratory Company.
The company is UAE-owned and is interested in making investments in the production of different minerals in Somaliland in coordination with the Ministry of Energy and Minerals to develop a Laboratory to analyze minerals.
The two sides discussed how to work together to increase production in the field of minerals and energy in the country and as an international market.
They also focused on how to develop the mineral analysis laboratory, which plays an important role in the work and development of the sector hence agreements were made to upgrade and modernize it.
Similarly in agreement was to strengthen the relationship between the two sides, as well as to promote the cooperation between the ministry and the Emirati company and how to invest in the country’s minerals.
-Words of wisdom and advises were expressed at the event
-Their documents were received and processed earlier
-Taiwan pledges financial support for the elections
By M.A. Egge
This week testifies to the readiness in preparations for the electioneering processes for the up-coming presidential and vice-presidential elections which will be held simultaneously with that of the political parties.
The Somaliland National Elections Commission (NEC) on Saturday awarded the candidacy certificates to the three presidential aspirants who are vying for the top executive post in the country.
The incumbent H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi who is the flag-bearer of the ruling party KULMIYE arrived at the headquarters of the elections body Iin the morning while quite jovial.
So too did his challengers Abdillahi Mohamed Abdillahi Irro and Feisal Ali Hussein of respectively both WADDANI and UCID political parties arrived at about the same time to receive their certificates of candidature.
All were accompanied by their running mates.
Upon the presentations words of wisdom were expressed by the Chair of the commission Mr. Musa Hassan who quipped that the air of camaraderie depicted should be also seen all throughout the elections period such that the processes may be without flows.
The Head of State on his part noted that pledge should be made that the elections would be entered without incidences. He further cautioned that since the nation had so many foes, things that would foment or catalyze animosity should be totally shunned.
The WADDANI aspirant Abdillahi Irro said that he welcomed his fellow aspirin candidates and pointed out that he was ready for the elections hence would standby any directives from NEC.
On his part, UCID aspiring candidate Feisal Ali observed that the flagbearers should prevail upon their supporters who spew virulent words otherwise they would be seen to abetting the wrongs.
The NEC received on Thursday the candidacy documents for Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates from the three National Parties, marking a crucial step toward the upcoming elections to be held on the 13th of November this year.
The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) had conducted a lottery draw for Political Parties and Associations to establish the order of their listings on the ballot papers for the Presidential and National Party Elections set for November 13, 2024.
This is after the final list of political associations and parties eligible to participate in the National Party Election was availed, an announcement which was a significant milestone in the electoral process.
Meanwhile, Taiwan had revealed earlier in the week that it would eke in spport in funding the elections. NEC welcomed Taiwan’s Ambassador Allen Chen Lou, to their HQ.
Present was Somaliland’s Ambassador to Taiwan, Mohamed Haji.
The NEC briefed them on preparations for the upcoming elections whereupon Amb. Allen pledged Taiwan’s financial support for the elections.
In related news, the National Electoral Commission witnessed the administering of oath to regional and district election officials at the wrapping up of a training that they underwent.
The Chairman of the commission, Musa Hassan, urged the officials of the regions and districts of the national commission to ensure diligence in the performance of their duties.
He reminded them that the oath they undertook was a solemnity pledge whose responsibility they only bore upon their own selves.
The Chief Commander of the National Police Force Major General Mohamed Adan Saqadi presided over the passing out graduation parade of 365 police officers who have just completed their course at the Lihle Police Academy at Mandera.
The police chief urged the policemen to work towards the guaranteeing of peaceful security and stability of the country, and to respectfully adhere to the laws and regulations of the police force.
He stressed that they should do their best to serve the members of the public as per etiquette and protect the rights of the citizenry such that the police can be a reliable and fair force and earn public trust.
He pointed out the importance of the police to being efficient and practicing police ethics as per expectations and work in tandem with the populaces hence strike a chord of good rapport in harnessing good relations for impeccable public services to be realized and achieved.
On the other hand, the Major General encouraged the members of the police force to be an active participant in the development and planning of security plans, to ensure that the police force establishment becomes a formidable force that can be dependable in the dispensation and execution of their onerous services to the nation.
The police graduation ceremony witnessed the attendance of senior officials including the training commandant and top sectional commanders of the police department.
In the city of Hargeisa, an event was held to inaugurate the office of exchange of financial instruments of the Central Bank of Somaliland.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Minister of Financial Development, the Governor of the Central Bank and other dignitaries.
The Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Somaliland Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi spoke in depth about the importance of the office for the country’s financial system, noting that the new exchange would greatly contribute to the development and efficiency of the financial system management in the country.
The director of the Exchange office, Mr. Abdinasir Mohamed Jama, gave a brief and complete report on how the office works and the technical process it uses.
He also emphasized that the office will facilitate financial exchange in the country, which will enhance the coherence and efficiency of financial institutions in the country.
On the occasion, the Minister of Finance, Hon. Saad Ali Shire, also made important remarks and highlighted the important role that the office will play in the development of the economy and the payment process.
The minister underpinned the importance it would have in the process of connecting the country’s financial institutions, which will play a major role in the growth and quality of the country’s financial institutions.
Dr. Edna Adan and the top leaders of the country’s leading banks also spoke about the importance of the office for the growth and openness of the country’s economy.
Finally, the Governor of the Central Bank of Somaliland, Dr. Ali Abdilahi Dahir, officially inaugurated this office, explaining the importance of the exchange office to the financial system of the country, the openness of the economy, and the project which would be the basis for financial development in the future.
Maverick traditional leader Boqor Osman aw Mohamoud popularly known as Buurmadow has stated that as far as the country’s and its people’ aspirations was concerned, no one would be able to subvert.
The traditional leader gave the sentiments as he triumphantly jetted back after several years into the country owing to Presidential Pardon extended him recently.
He noted in one of his speeches, as he addressed several similar receptions that toasted to his safe return, that he was not able to swiftly return to the country owing to the constitutional requirement that whoever visits Mogadishu was not to be allowed back in the country unless granted pardon by the state.
He said that it was because of the legal aspect of the fact that he had no other option except seek and wait for a pardon.
He pointed out that he was thankful that even after all the rhetoric he spewed in the media over the years including sharp words against the head of State, “the President had not even once scoffed at him”
He received an unprecedented tumultuous reception, not seen accorded in a long while to a citizen, jetting back from abroad.
He noted that, “The aspirations of the people in reasserting Somaliland’s independence and sovereignty was a people’s driven resolution that cannot be subverted or changed by anyone or anything at all”.
He made it clear that there is nothing at all for Somalilanders in Mogadishu that can ever be worthwhile for a reunion.
On the other hand, King Buur-madaw prayed for the community of Somaliland and prayed that their hearts and minds may be united and a harmonious cohesion may prevail in the country.
Elders from the Somali regional state in Ethiopia have called on Somalis to “refrain from involving themselves in a war that does not concern them” during a recent discussion on Horn of Africa affairs.
The meeting, led by elder Gerad Kulmiye Gerad Mohammed, addressed current regional issues and emphasized the importance of maintaining stability.
The elders discussed Ethiopia’s efforts to secure sea access, describing it as an initiative for collective growth. Gerad emphasized that “anything harmful to Ethiopia also harms the people of the Somali region,” highlighting the interconnected nature of regional interests.
“The primary agenda is safeguarding the national interests of the country,” Gerad stated. He cautioned that neighboring countries should avoid actions that might “drag the Horn of Africa into a crisis.”
The discussion touched on the historical ties between Ethiopia and Somalia.
“Despite the border dividing the people of the Somali region and Somalia, we remain brothers and should preserve our shared history of unity,” Gerad remarked.
He noted that Ethiopia has hosted over 500,000 Somali refugees, with many Somalis studying at universities in Addis Abeba and Jigjiga.
The elders expressed concern about “external forces” potentially destabilizing the region.
Gerad urged the people of Somalia to “oppose those forces,” noting that they show little interest in confronting groups like al-Shabaab.
Another elder, Ughaz Ali, advocated for regional dialogue, stating, “Somalia should engage in dialogue with its neighbors rather than distant countries in order to solve problems peacefully.”
He warned against the influence of foreign entities that might not have the region’s best interests in mind.
The meeting comes amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on January 1, 2024, between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which granted Ethiopia sea access in exchange for recognizing Somaliland.
Reports of Egypt sending military officers and heavy equipment to Somalia have further complicated the situation, with Somali MPs from the South West State opposing the deal between Somalia and Egypt, warning it could lead to a “dangerous situation” in the region.
The MPs issued a statement calling for careful consideration of international agreements. They warned that certain agreements could “bring the ‘Nile issue’ to Somalia” and potentially “lead to a war in the Horn of Africa.”
More recently, the President of Somalia’s Southwest State, Lafta-Gareen, expressed opposition to the deployment of “foreign military forces,” emphasizing the need for Somalia to manage its own affairs. According to media reports, Lafta-Gareen “made it clear that his region would not accept the presence of Egyptian troops.” AS
Taiwan pledged financial support for the elections.
The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) received on Thursday the candidacy documents for Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates from the three National Parties, marking a crucial step toward the upcoming Presidential Election.
Similarly, The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) conducted a lottery draw for Political Parties and Associations to establish the order of their listings on the ballot papers for the Presidential and National Party Elections set for November 13, 2024.
Lastly, NEC has announced the final list of Political Associations and Parties eligible to participate in the National Party Election scheduled for Nov 13, 2024. This announcement is a significant milestone in the electoral process.
The Somaliland NEC welcomed Taiwan’s Ambassador, Allen Chenhwa Lou, to their HQ. Also present was Somaliland’s Ambassador to Taiwan, Mohamed Haji. The NEC briefed on preparations for the upcoming elections. Amb. Allen also pledged Taiwan’s financial support for the elections.
State reveals legalizing MoU agreement with Ethiopia is imminent
By M.A. Egge
The government of the Republic of Somaliland has ordered the official closure of the Hargeisa Cultural Library of the Egyptian government in the capital of Somaliland, Hargeisa.
The government also announced that the memorandum of understanding deal signed between the Republic of Somaliland and the federal government of Ethiopia has been successfully finalized and that a formal legal treaty is imminent.
The revelations were made by the Foreign minister Hon. Dr. Issa Keyd Mohamoud.
He was categorical that, “The only remaining thing on the MoU is to formally treatise the agreement”.
On the government’s decision to close the Egyptian Cultural Library in Hargeisa the minister stated, “Today I am announcing a decision by the government of the Republic of Somaliland in closing the Cultural Library of Egypt, which is located in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland”.
He said further, “The government of Somaliland has identified security concerns that pose a threat to the nation, so the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has decided that it is necessary to permanently close the Cultural Library of Egypt, and that the staffers are ordered to leave the country within 72 hours”.
The minister said that the decision was not an easy one to make but the safety of the citizens of Somaliland as paramount.
He said, “This decision is not easy, but the safety of our citizens is an important national responsibility”.
“We know that Egypt has weapons shipped to the government of Mogadishu which we believe is harmful to the security and stability of the country, so we have decided to expel the purported librarians from the country whom we believe to be with sinister motives”.
Minister Isse Keyd said that the government of the Republic of Somaliland has written an official letter to the government of Egypt, informing them of this decision.
In this regard, the ministry has informed the relevant agencies including the Immigration department and the Somaliland National Intelligence Agency to monitor the closure of the Library in a safe manner and the expulsion of the called librarians from the country.
The minister however pointed out, “Much as the Government of the Republic of Somaliland is committed to continue its friendly relations with the Arab Republic of Egypt, the safety of the citizens and security concerns of the country is of great importance hence we believe that this decision is in the interest of the country and region as a whole.”
He cautioned that as far as safeguarding the stability and security of the nation was concerned the government will take any measures to maintain it at all times from any violators.
Meanwhile, the Ethiopian government on Tuesday presented its achievements in the year 2016 in the Ethiopian edition which prominently had the picture of the President of Somaliland H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi and the Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed Ali during the signing of the agreement.
He had announced through his X handle that the memorandum of understanding deal signed between the Republic of Somaliland and the federal government of Ethiopia has been successfully finalized and that a formal legal treaty is imminent
