President of the Republic of Somaliland Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” has welcomed four politicians from eastern Sanaag who recently returned to Somaliland after previously being associated with the administration based in Las Anod, calling on them and the wider community to put political differences aside and work toward peace and development.
President Irro received the returning politicians at a meeting in Hargeisa, where he praised their decision to return and said their participation could make a meaningful contribution to peacebuilding, reconciliation, social cohesion and development in their communities.
The president emphasized that political disagreements should never become a source of division among Somaliland communities, stressing the longstanding social and familial ties that connect people across the country.
“Somaliland has no internal borders. People may differ politically and have different views, but these people are relatives who have lived together since God created them.”
President Irro also reassured the returning politicians that they should not regard themselves as outsiders or guests, emphasizing their place within Somaliland society and government.
“Today, you are not guests whom I am welcoming. Historically, as people and as a country, you are in your own country, among your own people, and with your own government.”
The president’s remarks come as his administration continues efforts to promote peace, reconciliation and political engagement in eastern Sanaag, an area that has experienced political tensions and armed clashes in recent years.
Eastern Sanaag holds considerable strategic importance for Somaliland because of its location along the Gulf of Aden and its access to the coast, including the historic port area of Las Qoray.
The meeting signals a broader political outreach by the Somaliland government aimed at rebuilding relationships with communities and political figures in eastern Sanaag, encouraging reconciliation and strengthening internal stability.
The return of the four politicians could also provide an opportunity for the government to expand dialogue with communities that have been affected by years of political tension and contribute to renewed efforts toward peace and social cohesion across the region.