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In his recent press conference, the Villa Somalia Foreign Minister, Mr. Fiqi, criticized the visit of six European ambassadors to Somaliland, where they were observing preparations for the upcoming presidential election. This criticism, aimed at undermining Somaliland’s statehood, was not only diplomatically inappropriate but also indicative of a lack of understanding of the regional political context.
The visit of these ambassadors is part of broader international engagement in Somaliland, with over 100 representatives from Africa, South America, Europe, and the United States participating as observers. Their presence underscores the international community’s recognition of Somaliland’s democratic advancements, even if formal recognition as an independent state remains pending. The peaceful conduct of elections and the anticipated smooth transfer of power will mark a historic milestone, reinforcing Somaliland’s commitment to peace, stability, and governance in a region often marred by conflict.
In contrast, Somalia continues to grapple with significant internal challenges. The Villa Somalia administration has limited territorial control, with Al-Shabaab maintaining dominance over nearly 65% of Somalia. The terrorist group poses existential threats to Somalia’s sovereignty and security, overshadowing the government’s ability to focus on national unity and stability. Furthermore, Somalia’s internal divisions, lack of reconciliation among political factions, and minimal progress in governance compound its challenges.
Key Recommendations:
1. Focus on Internal Priorities:
Villa Somalia’s leadership, including the Foreign Minister, should prioritize addressing Somalia’s critical issues:
Strengthening efforts against Al-Shabaab through military and ideological means.
Advancing political reconciliation to foster unity among Somalia’s diverse clans and political groups.
Building sustainable governance institutions to regain territorial control and enhance service delivery.
2. Acknowledge Somaliland’s Achievements:
Rather than undermining Somaliland’s progress, Villa Somalia should recognize its achievements as a model for governance and peaceful power transitions in the region. Somaliland’s political stability, democratic processes, and state-building efforts can serve as valuable lessons.
3. Somaliland’s Unified Response:
Somaliland’s government and political parties must respond cohesively to Villa Somalia’s allegations to:
Reaffirm Somaliland’s sovereignty and the legitimacy of its electoral processes.
Highlight the broad international support and recognition of its democratic journey.
Emphasize that its progress contributes to regional stability, not division.
4. Engage Internationally:
Somaliland should leverage the presence of international observers to strengthen its narrative:
Organize press briefings and diplomatic engagements to share the success of its democratic processes.
Counter misinformation from Villa Somalia by providing factual accounts of its elections and governance.
A Call for Diplomatic Maturity:
The Foreign Minister’s remarks reflect a concerning lack of diplomatic maturity. Instead of focusing on Somaliland, which has achieved considerable stability and progress, Villa Somalia should redirect its energy toward Somalia’s pressing needs. It is time for Villa Somalia to recognize that Somaliland’s achievements do not undermine Somalia but rather set an example of what governance, stability, and democracy can look like in the Horn of Africa.
Somaliland’s leadership and political entities must seize this opportunity to demonstrate unity and resilience and showcase their nation’s historic achievements to the world.

Eng. ABDI ALI BARKHAD
Independent Political Analyst
Tra50526@gmail.com 17/11/2024