The Egyptian government’s proxy war against the statehood of Somaliland
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In a recent interview with Al Arabiya TV, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Badar Abdelatty, stated that the Egyptian government will not accept the division of Somalia and the recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. The Minister firmly declared that Egypt would use force to defend against any efforts to dismantle Somalia’s unity. He further emphasized that neither the Red Sea nor the Gulf of Aden would allow Ethiopia to establish a naval base and port, asserting that Egypt stands ready to defend against such moves.
Moreover, the Egyptian government’s proxy actions serve as a direct message to both Ethiopia and the issue of Somaliland’s statehood. The diplomatic situation in Egypt appears to be faltering; if Egypt wishes to exercise its power effectively, it should focus on addressing the suffering of the 2 million people under Israeli governance in Gaza.
Egypt’s claims regarding the situation in the region seem to overlook a critical point: Al-Shabaab remains the foremost local threat to Somalia’s stability and security. This extremist group has been responsible for numerous violent acts and continues to pose significant challenges to the peace and governance of the Somali people.
It is important to acknowledge Ethiopia’s role in this complex situation. While Egypt may perceive Ethiopia as a potential adversary, it is crucial to understand that Ethiopia, being a neighboring country, should not be viewed as hostile toward the region. In fact, Ethiopia has the legitimate right to seek access to the sea through the Gulf of Aden; this position does not require external approval or permission from other countries, such as Egypt or Eritrea. And Villa-Somalia
Additionally, Somaliland’s desire for recognition as an independent state is founded on the aspirations and consensus of its people. This wish for self-determination is deeply rooted in the region’s historical context, particularly given Somaliland’s past as a British protectorate. Egypt, being aware of this historical backdrop, should consider the aspirations of the Somaliland people as part of the broader dialogue about stability and governance in the Horn of Africa.
The Somaliland Foreign Minister is responsible for organizing a detailed press conference to address the recent strong statements made by the Egyptian government concerning Somaliland’s sovereignty. This important event will gather a wide range of attendees, including representatives from various international agencies, diplomats from foreign nations, and members of the press from multiple media outlets. The press conference will provide a platform for the Somaliland government to clearly articulate its stance on the matter and respond to Egypt’s assertions. It aims to foster an open dialogue and enhance understanding of Somaliland’s position in the international community amidst media outlets to discuss the Somaliland government’s position in light of Egypt’s statements.
Role of Opposition Parties: Detailed Engagement
Kulmiye and Kaah should publicly support the government’s stance, reinforcing the message that Somaliland is united on the issue of sovereignty.
Each party should release statements condemning Egypt’s threats and reaffirming Somaliland’s right to self-determination, as well as the current statement of Villa-Somalia (“Any move towards recognising Somaliland’s independence would not only contravene Somalia’s sovereignty but also destabilise the region by setting a dangerous precedent,” says the Somali State ) Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar.
Organize public discussions and forums to educate citizens about the diplomatic situation, fostering national unity and resilience against external threats.
Encourage party leaders to engage with international diplomats and organizations to present a unified stance from Somaliland’s political spectrum.
This detailed approach ensures that Somaliland’s message is comprehensive, addressing historical, legal, and regional dynamics while robustly countering Egypt’s assertions.
ENG.ABDI ALI BARKHAD
Independent Political Analyst
Hargeisa Somaliland tra50526@gmail.com whatsapp: +252 63 4411160 17/1/2024
Abdi Ali Barkhad, a voice for Somaliland’s sovereignty, passionately defends its independence and democratic progress while critiquing external influences and advocating for internal unity and development.