By Prof. Nassir Hussein Kahin
In a striking display of political maneuvering, the critics of Somaliland’s newly elected government which was swept into office after a historic landslide of free and fair elections, have wasted no time in attacking its recent foreign ministry appointments. The focus of their ire is the appointment of Danjire Maxamuud Adan Jaamac Galaal (a seasoned diplomat with academic credentials) the new Ambassador to Taiwan, whom one critic has labeled him as part of a team “selected for foreign ministry – the Minister, the DG, and the Ambassador are unfit for the purpose of pursuing recognition.”
The timing and nature of this critique raise concerns about its impact on Somaliland’s unity, especially as the nation strives for the elusive goal of international recognition.
The critics claim centers on the Ambassador’s prior remarks, where he expressed mixed views about the relationship between Taiwan and Somaliland. While supporting the bilateral partnership in one instance, he also noted that it might not necessarily advance Somaliland’s quest for global recognition.
Despite these remarks, the new administration chose him to represent Somaliland in Taiwan, a decision that was met with full acceptance by Taiwan. Some of the critics have questioned both the appointment and Taiwan’s willingness to accept a diplomat who once expressed skepticism about the partnership’s strategic value.
Selective Criticism or Strategic Undermining?
A deeper look at the ambassador’s past statements reveals a more nuanced position rather than outright inconsistency. His acknowledgment of the complexities surrounding the Taiwan-Somaliland relationship reflects a level of pragmatism that could be an asset in diplomacy. By ignoring this context, the critics appears to be cherry-picking facts to create a narrative of incompetence.
It is also worth noting that Taiwan, a vital partner in Somaliland’s diplomatic efforts, has made no objections to the appointment. On the contrary, Taiwan welcomed the ambassador and validated the new government’s decision. This tacit approval undermines their claims. It also casts their critique as a potentially destabilizing distraction rather than a substantive policy debate.
Risks of Politicizing Diplomacy
By launching these accusations just weeks after the new government’s landslide victory, the critics risk undermining national unity and diplomatic credibility at a critical juncture. Somaliland’s push for international recognition—a cause that transcends partisan divides—depends heavily on presenting a unified front to the world. Publicly questioning the government’s foreign policy decisions not only risks dividing the nation but could also send mixed signals to international partners.
Historically, countries with similar diplomatic struggles have recognized the importance of internal cohesion in foreign affairs. For example, in the United States, opposition parties traditionally refrain from publicly undermining critical foreign policy decisions during sensitive negotiations. Similarly, South Korea’s political factions often maintain a unified stance on key diplomatic issues to safeguard the nation’s strategic interests. Somaliland’s critics would do well to heed these examples.
A Strategic Appointment?
Far from being a misstep, the appointment of the new ambassador may represent a calculated move by the government. The ambassador’s nuanced understanding of the Taiwan-Somaliland relationship could enable him to navigate its complexities while advancing Somaliland’s interests. Moreover, this decision signals continuity and stability, ensuring that previous diplomatic foundations are not abandoned but built upon. By making such appointments independently, the new government also asserts its sovereignty and demonstrates that its foreign policy is guided by national priorities rather than external pressures.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, their criticism appears less about policy and more about political posturing. The new government, still basking in its electoral victory, deserves the benefit of the doubt as it begins to implement its foreign policy strategy. Taiwan’s acceptance of the ambassador’s credentials reinforces the legitimacy of this decision, and the absence of any diplomatic fallout further discredits the critic’s claims.
At this critical juncture, Somaliland’s critics —both in government and opposition—must recognize the importance of unity in pursuing recognition. Partisan disputes have their place, but diplomacy should remain above the fray. Undermining the government’s credibility on the international stage risks derailing a shared national goal, one that demands collective effort and unwavering resolve.
