The Ministry of Interior and Security of the Republic of Somaliland has warned that Somalilanders who participate in Somalia’s political activities prohibited by a parliamentary decision will face legal action, describing such involvement as treason against Somaliland’s independence and sovereignty.
In a ministerial decree issued by Interior and Security Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab, the ministry called on government officials, traditional leaders, political parties, academics, organisations and members of the public to comply with the decision jointly adopted by Somaliland’s two parliamentary chambers.
The decree, titled Implementation of the Decision Prohibiting Participation in Somalia’s Political Activities, cites Articles 22(i) and 29 of Law No. 71/2025, which amends and supplements the law governing the structure of the government and independent institutions.
It also refers to a joint decision issued by the House of Elders and the House of Representatives on 11 October 2003, under reference number JSL/GB/01/10/2003, which prohibited participation in Somalia’s political activities.
Government warns against actions undermining Somaliland’s sovereignty
The ministry said acts threatening Somaliland’s independence and statehood were being pursued by the Federal Government of Somalia and other governments opposed to Somaliland’s independence. It further alleged that some traditional leaders originating from Somaliland were being used in such efforts.
The decree stressed that protecting public security, national stability and Somaliland’s sovereignty required vigilance against activities considered harmful to the country’s independence and continued existence.
Under the directive, any person originating from Somaliland who participates in the prohibited political activities could face legal proceedings in accordance with the parliamentary decision and applicable domestic laws.
The decree explicitly extends its warning to government officials, ordinary citizens, political parties, organisations, academics, traditional leaders, poets and other members of society.
Security agencies ordered to enforce parliamentary decision
The ministry directed all relevant security institutions to enforce the parliamentary decision and bring individuals suspected of committing criminal acts against Somaliland’s independence and sovereignty before the competent courts.
It also warned that individuals engaging in other acts deemed to undermine Somaliland’s independence, statehood and sovereignty could face legal action.
The decree calls on Somalilanders at home and abroad to unite in preventing activities that the government considers threats to the country’s sovereignty and national existence.
The ministerial directive was signed by Abdalle Mohamed Arab, Minister of Interior and Security of the Republic of Somaliland.
The decree invokes the 2003 parliamentary decision and existing domestic legislation as the basis for enforcement. The precise application of the directive and any resulting legal proceedings will depend on the relevant laws and the decisions of the competent courts.