Confine yourselves elsewhere since none can stop Somaliland’s recognition, he tells naysayers
M.A. Egge
In an inspiring and passionate address during the final cabinet meeting of the year, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro delivered uplifting news to the people of Somaliland, announcing that Israel’s milestone formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland marks the beginning of a broader wave of international acceptance.
“I am giving good news to the people that many other countries will join us on the path and will recognize us, God willing,” he said.
The words spark optimism amid the historic shift following Israel’s groundbreaking decision on December 26 to become the first UN member state to formally acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty.
The president extended profound gratitude to cabinet members, parliamentarians from both houses, political parties, the media, and civil society for their unwavering support in advancing Somaliland’s quest for global recognition.
He highlighted the nation’s remarkable unity, describing it as “100% united” in pursuit of this goal.
In a critique aimed at opposition from Mogadishu, President Irro praised Somaliland’s religious scholars as “heroes” who stood firmly with their people, countering what he described as Somalia’s primary tactic of deploying clerics to block recognition efforts.
“The main weapon Somalia used in its war against Somaliland to prevent recognition was the religious scholars. And I thank Somaliland’s clergy for showing that they are heroes,” he stated.
Addressing known adversaries, the president urged citizens to remain vigilant: “Somaliland has gained and clearly identified many people and countries that have shown hostility toward Somaliland and its people” he said, and added, “we hold no hostility toward anyone, but those who have shown it to us, we must know them, distinguish them from us, and label them as enemies; those who are friends with us will remain friends”.
He continued, “To those dismayed by Somaliland’s progress, he offered a firm message: ‘Confine yourselves to your work and interests; no one can stop Somaliland’s recognition’”.
Turning to domestic security, President Abdirahman Irro issued a passionate call to action, urging that every citizen play an active role in safeguarding the nation.
“I urge that we protect our security, that every citizen becomes vigilantes as do police officers, intelligence agents, peacekeepers, and guardians, and that the people unite and be in solidarity,” he said. “We need to further strengthen that unity and collectively safeguard the victory.”
As the year draws to a close, the President’s words resonate as a rallying cry for continued resilience and collective effort, positioning Somaliland on the cusp of greater international legitimacy after decades of de facto independence.