To our esteemed President, His Excellency, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro

To our esteemed President, His Excellency, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi, President of the Republic of Somaliland,

Your Excellency,

The people of Somaliland are increasingly alarmed by the recent provocations from the President of Villa Somalia, Mr Hassan Sheikh Mahamed. President Hassan audaciously dismissed our hard-fought sovereignty in a series of public statements that have drawn significant attention on the international stage. He has made it abundantly clear that he does not recognize Somaliland as a distinct and independent nation. Instead, he insists that it is merely a region of Somalia, a claim that disrespects our identity and undermines our legitimate aspirations for self-governance and recognition on the global front.

This assertion is not an isolated incident; it is part of a systematic narrative perpetuated by his entire administration, which seeks to negate our significant progress and achievements over the years. The remarks made by President Hassan reflect a broader pattern aimed at dismissing the realities of our quest for autonomy, which has been a cornerstone of our social and political existence since our Declaration of Independence. The implications of this dismissal are profound, as it threatens to erode the legitimacy of our established government, dilute our cultural identity, and stifle our ongoing efforts to seek diplomatic and economic engagement with the international community.

Mr. President Abdirahman, the prolonged silence emanating from your office regarding this crucial issue is deeply concerning and calls into question our dedication to the principles of sovereignty and unwavering loyalty to our beloved nation. The citizens of Somaliland earnestly urge you to articulate a clear and resolute position in the face of these pressing challenges, as our collective dignity, identity, and national pride hang in the balance. The moment demands a response and a reaffirmation of our values and commitment to the future we envision for our people.

We are acutely aware of the concerted and hostile efforts being meticulously orchestrated by the Villa Somalia regime, aimed at undermining international recognition of Somaliland in crucial diplomatic arenas, particularly in influential countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Ongoing negotiations within the U.S. Congress surrounding a pivotal bill designed to address our quest for recognition have not gone unnoticed by our stakeholders. To obstruct our progress, the Villa Somalia government has resorted to engaging prominent lobbying firms, demonstrating their increasing desperation to control a narrative that has long been disproven by our commitment to democratic principles and self-determination. The regime’s tactics highlight a profound unease with our pursuit of legitimacy on the global stage and reflect an unwillingness to acknowledge the autonomy and aspirations of the Somaliland people.

We must steadfastly remain vigilant in the face of the emerging conflicts that are taking shape in the eastern regions of Somaliland. The situation is becoming increasingly concerning, as it is evident that these escalating tensions are being stoked by the Villa Somalia government. Their objective is alarmingly clear: to undermine our hard-won peace and dismantle the stability we have labored tirelessly to establish. In these critical times, it is imperative that we band together as a united nation, resolutely defending our sovereignty against the encroachments of a faltering state. Our commitment to preserving our homeland and the sacrifices made for our stability must guide our actions.

It is imperative that we fully recognize and confront the challenges that lie ahead, taking decisive and proactive steps to safeguard our national interests. The future of Somaliland hinges on our collective bravery and determination to assert our rightful position in the global community as an independent and self-governing nation. By fostering strong international relationships, advocating for our sovereignty, and promoting sustainable development, we can create a strong and secure future. It is our responsibility to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration with other nations, ensuring that the unique identity and aspirations of Somaliland are acknowledged and respected on the world stage.

Mr. President, at this critical juncture, your leadership must reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty, national pride, and self-determination. A strong and decisive response is not merely expected; it is essential to uphold the future we envision for our people. We trust that you will rise to this occasion and make clear to the world that Somaliland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable and irrevocable.

Mr. President, we do not ultimately need the special envoy you recently nominated, nor the continuation of the so-called dialogue and negation between Somaliland and Villa Somalia. All this does not work at all because the Somali President has repeatedly stated that Somaliland will never be recognized as independent, then engaging in further dialogue seems counterproductive.

Therefore, why, Mr President, do you adhere to this position? Close all doors, and Somaliland should focus on strengthening ties with nations and institutions that have shown support in our case for statehood, such as Taiwan, the UAE, the UK, and influential think tanks in the US and South Africa. Redirecting diplomatic efforts toward strategic partnerships

To move beyond the ineffective dialogue with Villa Somalia, Somaliland should adopt a strategic, multi-pronged approach focused on consolidating its sovereignty, strengthening international alliances, and enhancing its global outreach. Here’s a more detailed plan:

1. Officially End the Somaliland-Somalia Dialogue

Issue a formal declaration stating that Somaliland no longer sees value in negotiations with Somalia regarding its sovereignty.

Recall the recently appointed special envoy and redirect diplomatic resources to nations and institutions that recognize or support Somaliland’s cause.

Challenge Somalia’s claims in international forums, exposing its failure to govern beyond Mogadishu and its continued reliance on external forces for security.

2. Launch an Aggressive Diplomatic and Media Campaign

Engage international think tanks (e.g., Heritage Foundation, Atlantic Council, Chatham House) to publish reports on Somaliland’s right to statehood.

Leverage media platforms like BBC, Al Jazeera, The Washington Post, and The New York Times to highlight Somaliland’s achievements and contrast them with Somalia’s instability.

Enhance diaspora engagement to lobby Western governments for recognition.

3. Establish a Somaliland Global Lobbying Task Force

A team of experienced diplomats, lawyers, and policy analysts should work full-time on Somaliland’s recognition efforts, funded by the government and diaspora.

By taking these steps, Somaliland can shift from defensive diplomacy to proactive international engagement, reducing reliance on ineffective talks with Somalia and solidifying its independent statehood.

With the utmost respect and patriotism,

Independent Political Analyst
Hargeisa Somaliland         tra50526@gmail.com           2/1/2024

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.