By Goth Mohamed Goth
Somaliland has announced its complete withdrawal from decade-long talks with the Somali government, accusing Somalia of violating its sovereignty during Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre’s recent visit to Las Anod.
In a statement issued by the Council of Ministers, Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Ahmed Yasin Sheikh Ali Ayanle, declared an immediate end to all dialogue with Somalia.
“The Somali government has repeatedly breached Somaliland’s sovereignty and the foundational principles of previous negotiations. Consequently, the Council of Ministers has decided to terminate all ongoing talks with Somalia, effective today, April 16, 2024,” Minister Ayanle stated.
He condemned the Somali Prime Minister’s visit to Las Anod as a “blatant violation of Somaliland’s sovereignty” and an act of “provocation and warmongering,” warning that such actions threaten regional stability.
The minister also criticized Somalia’s transfer of prisoners from Las Anod to Mogadishu, calling it an act of “kidnapping” rather than a legitimate prisoner exchange. He stressed that any such transfers must adhere to international law, with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) serving as the sole mediator—a framework previously agreed upon in bilateral talks.
Somaliland urged the international community to address Somalia’s alleged violations in eastern Sool and support efforts to restore peace in the region, which it asserts falls under its administration.
Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre’s visit to Las Anod—part of what he called a “Unity Strengthening Mission”—has further inflamed tensions. The city, previously under Somaliland’s control until early 2023, is now claimed by Somalia.
In a related development, the Somali government has formally recognized the SSC-Khaatumo administration in Las Anod as a federal member state. Additionally, 25 prisoners formerly held by Somaliland were released and transferred to Mogadishu.
