Hargeysa(Mogadishu24)-The breakaway republic of Somaliland expressed its disapproval of Somalia's recognition of SSC-Khatumo as an independent state on Thursday.
In a press statement, the Somaliland administration labeled the region's interim leadership as a 'Clan militia's administration.'
“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland strongly objects to Somalia’s formal recognition of the Clan militia’s authority over Las-Anod, Somaliland,” the statement from Somaliland government read.
The Somaliland government stated that no administration can claim Las'Anod, emphasizing that Somalia's announcement to recognize SSC-Khatumo poses a threat to regional stability.
“The Government of Somaliland firmly asserts that neither Somalia nor the Clan militia have jurisdiction or a claim over Las-Anod. Somalia's acceptance of the militia's declaration is a deliberate attack on Somaliland's statehood and territorial integrity within its 26 June 1960 borders. It is alarming and perilously threatens the stability of the Horn of Africa,” the statement continued.
“Somalia's recent action of hosting and recognizing anti-Somaliland militia leaders in Mogadishu grossly threatens regional peace and security, confirming Somalia’s participation in fueling the fighting and instability in Las Anod from the start,” the statement added.
Somaliland further called on the federal government to withdraw its recognition of the region’s interim leadership, and the international community to condemn Somalia’s actions.
“The Government of Somaliland calls on Somalia to completely withdraw its support for the Clan militia. We also urge the international community to condemn this recognition, as it poses a threat to the overall stability of the region,” the statement read.
The republic also called on both parties to respect Somaliland’s territorial boundaries and work on dialogue to promote peace and security in the region.
“We further call upon all parties involved to respect the internationally recognized boundaries of the Republic of Somaliland and engage in meaningful dialogue to achieve peace and security,” the statement added.
Somaliland’s response came hours after the federal government of Somalia announced its official recognition of the interim administration of SSC-KHATUMO, which comprises the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions.
During a press conference, Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Ahmed Maalim Fiqi, declared that the federal government recognizes the decision made by SSC community leaders on February 6th, 2023. This decision claims that the region does not belong to either the Somaliland or Puntland administrations.
“The Federal Government of Somalia once again supports the decisions made by community leaders on February 6, 2023, and welcomes collaboration with the transitional government established by the local population,” stated Minister Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, the federal Minister of Interior.
Somaliland, the northern region of Somalia colonized by the British, has been striving for recognition as an independent nation for the past 32 years. Compared to other parts of Somalia, it has established a more peaceful government and environment, especially in the aftermath of the 1991 civil war.
However, the secession movement does not enjoy unanimous support from all communities and tribes within Somaliland.
