Somaliland’s independence and statehood are not mere aspirations; they are rooted in historical legitimacy, legal precedent, and the unwavering will of our people.
Our journey to sovereignty is a story of resilience, self determination, and a rightful place among the free nations of the world. On June 26, 1960, Somaliland gained full independence from Britain, recognized by over 35 nations, including the United Kingdom and the United Nations. Our sovereignty was not borrowed; it was earned and acknowledged.
However, in pursuit of pan-Somali unity, we voluntarily entered into a union with Somalia. That union, meant to be a partnership of equals, quickly turned into a tragic betrayal—our rights were denied, our people suffered under brutal repression, and our aspirations were dismissed. In 1991, after decades of marginalization, genocide, and dictatorship, the people of Somaliland exercised their inalienable right to self-determination and RECLAIMED THEIR INDEPENDENCE.
Since then, Somaliland has built a peaceful, democratic, and well functioning state, with its own flag, Constitution, three branches of government, military, currency, and legal system—far surpassing the governance structures of many internationally recognized states. Our case for recognition is not based on secession, but on the restoration of a sovereign nation that existed before the ill-fated union. International law, including the African Union’s principles on colonial borders, supports our position.
The Republic of Somaliland meets all the criteria of statehood under the Montevideo Convention, including a permanent population, defined territory, government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states. To those who doubt our right to recognition, history is our witness, and our people’s determination is our strength. Somaliland’s independence is irreversible, and we will continue to engage with the world, building diplomatic bridges, fostering economic partnerships, and proving that our rightful place is among the community of nations.
No political narrative, no fabricated claim, and no external pressure can alter this reality. Somaliland is a fully functional and successful state, and its legitimacy is rooted in the will of its people, historical sovereignty, and political stability. Any attempt to falsely label Somaliland as part of Somalia is a deliberate distortion of facts and a grave insult to the hard-won peace, stability, and tremendous sacrifices of our people.
Somaliland will not be coerced into an artificial union that disregards our history, our achievements, and our people’s will. SOMALILAND IS HERE TO STAY, AND THE WORLD MUST ACKNOWLEDGE THIS UNDENIABLE TRUTH! Long live the Republic of Somaliland! Long live our freedom and sovereignty!
Sincerely, Hussein Adan Igeh (@Huseindeyr) Spokesman for the President of the Republic of Somaliland