-The leadership of the Republic of Somaliland, by the grace of Allah, rests with me and my people, and no one else can negotiate or claim it, said President
-I tell the international community and the world that Hassan Sheikh does not govern Somaliland, nor is he capable of managing Mogadishu
By: M. A. Egge
The President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro has categorically stated that no one can claim nor negotiate any iota of Somaliland territory.
He at the same time made it clear that the leadership of the nation of Somaliland rests with him and his people hence Hassan sheikh who cannot manage his own backyard has no say at all.
The Head of State made the remarks on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr on Saturday evening as he sent his greetings to the nation and the Muslim world at large.
In a speech addressing the Eid al-Fitr occasion, President Irro sent salutations to the people of Somaliland, the National Armed Forces, their families, and all civil servants of the Republic of Somaliland.
He congratulated the delegation led by the Vice President, along with the ministers, who spent the past month and more working on the nationalization of civilian forces and pacification efforts in the eastern regions. He noted that they achieved significant success, saying that the processes were progressing well, and the remaining tasks would be completed soon.
President Irro expressed gratitude to all the elders and religious leaders who facilitated the nationalization of the civilian forces and handed them over to the Vice President and his delegation. He also praised and prayed for the peace delegation in El-Afweyn, expressing confidence that they would soon conclude the longstanding conflict, with news of their success expected shortly.
President Irro described the actions taken by the Somali government to obstruct Somaliland’s progress as astonishing.
He stated, “It is surprising to hear statements from the President of Somalia, who cannot even manage Mogadishu, yet meddles in Berbera. I tell the international community, the President of the United States, and the world at large that Somaliland governs its own land, sea, and airspace”.
He continued, “Somaliland is an independent nation that will, God willing, become part of the community of sovereign states in the near future. Somaliland views the statements from a leader incapable of ensuring security in Mogadishu alone, yet claiming Berbera, as remarks that could harm the peace and stability of the region”.
He further added, “The international community knows he does not fully control Mogadishu, let alone have a claim over Berbera or other areas.”
The Republic of Somaliland is an independent nation that gained its sovereignty from Britain on June 26, 1960, briefly united with Somalia, and re-asserted its independence on May 18, 1991.
This was further solidified by a national referendum in which 97.1% of the people voted to re-confirm they are not part of Somalia, a decision witnessed by the world.
President Irro reiterated that the Republic of Somaliland governs its own territory and makes its own decisions. It has a government elected by its people and represents them.
He stated, “I tell the international community and the world that Hassan Sheikh does not govern Somaliland, nor is he capable of managing Mogadishu—we are well aware of its situation. For anyone wishing to engage or establish relations with Somaliland, the decision lies with its people and government. The leadership of the Republic of Somaliland, by the grace of Allah, rests with me and my people, and no one else can negotiate or claim it.”