Mohamoud Walaaleye
Republic of Somaliland’s opposition Kulmiye Party has extended its congratulations to the United Kingdom’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Andy Burnham, expressing optimism that his leadership will usher in a new chapter in the historic relationship between Somaliland and Britain.
In a formal congratulatory letter signed by Kulmiye Party Chairman Hon. Mohamed Kahin Ahmed, the party congratulated Burnham on his election as Leader of the Labour Party and his appointment as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, wishing him success in leading the British government.
“On behalf of the Kulmiye Party and the people of the Republic of Somaliland, I extend our warmest congratulations on your election as Leader of the Labour Party and your appointment as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom,” the letter stated.
The party highlighted Kulmiye’s longstanding commitment to democratic governance, noting that since its establishment in 2002, it has consistently championed constitutional rule, democratic pluralism, peaceful transfers of power, the rule of law, and the strengthening of democratic institutions.
According to the letter, these democratic principles have been central to Somaliland’s political development and continue to form the foundation of its enduring relationship with the United Kingdom.
Kulmiye also emphasized that Burnham’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment in Somaliland’s democratic journey, particularly following what it described as the Republic of Somaliland’s historic recognition by the State of Israel.
The party expressed confidence that the United Kingdom—recognized in the letter as the first country to acknowledge Somaliland’s independence on 26 June 1960—would continue to deepen its historic ties with Somaliland based on shared democratic values, longstanding relations, and mutual commitments to peace, stability, and international cooperation.
Looking ahead, Kulmiye said it hopes to see closer collaboration between Somaliland and the United Kingdom across areas of common interest, emphasizing that stronger bilateral engagement would benefit both peoples.
The letter concluded with assurances of the party’s highest consideration and its desire to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between Somaliland and the United Kingdom under Prime Minister Burnham’s leadership.