In a display of unprecedented political unity, former presidents, vice presidents, speakers of parliament, and leaders of Somaliland’s three major parties—Kulmiye, Waddani, and Kaah—gathered at the presidential palace to celebrate Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent state.
The event, hosted by Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi on December 26, underscored the broad consensus among the nation’s leadership and public following Israel’s groundbreaking declaration—the first by any UN member state since Somaliland reclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991.
During the gathering, prominent figures expressed profound gratitude and optimism, describing the moment as a long-awaited milestone.
- Mohamed Kahin Ahmed, Chairman of the Kulmiye Party, praised President Irro as “the president who brought recognition.”
- Mahmoud Hashi Abdi, Chairman of the Kaah Party, called it “a great victory” and congratulated the president for his fortunate role.
- Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, Chairman of the Waddani Party, noted that the recognition had been eagerly awaited by the people for years, predicting more countries would follow.
- Salebaan Mahmoud Aden, Speaker of the House of Elders, echoed the sentiment, stating President Irro had been fortunate to secure this achievement.
- Yasin Mahmoud Faraton, Speaker of the House of Representatives, drew a parallel to Somaliland’s original independence on June 26, 1960, saying: “Somaliland was previously recognized on June 26, and today it has been recognized on December 26.”
- Abdirahman Aw-Ali Farah, former Vice President, described the recognition as “a day we have long awaited.”
- Muse Bihi Abdi, former President, shared a personal anecdote: “While I was in my farm, I was told that recognition had arrived, and I immediately rushed here.”
- Former President Dahir Rayale Kahin expressed his emotions, stating that the people of Somaliland have finally achieved the victory they had awaited for three centuries.
The officials urged Somaliland’s citizens to unite in safeguarding this diplomatic breakthrough, emphasizing its potential for economic opportunities, security cooperation, and regional stability.
Israel’s recognition, announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and signed jointly with Somaliland’s leadership, has been framed as part of the “spirit of the Abraham Accords.” It comes amid Somaliland’s aspirations to join these normalization agreements and expand partnerships in technology, agriculture, and security.
The move has sparked celebrations in Somaliland, where leaders presented a united front and hailed the recognition as a historic step forward.