Civil society organizations and political representatives in Borama have called to order the regional residents for the up-holding and safeguarding of peaceful stability, justice and the protection of innocent civilians, urging authorities and community leaders to prevent ethnic hostility and ensure the safety of Oromo residents following tensions involving communities in the region.
In a statement, the representatives stressed that no innocent civilian should be made to suffer for a conflict they neither initiated nor participated in, warning that disputes between communities or across borders must never be used to justify ethnic hostility, collective punishment or violence.
They emphasized that Oromo residents living in Somaliland deserve safety, dignity and equal protection under the law, irrespective of their ethnicity or background.
The statement highlighted the longstanding historical relationship between Somaliland’s populaces and the Oromo communities, particularly in Borama and the wider region, where generations have maintained close ties through trade, movement, neighbourhood relations and peaceful coexistence.
It said these longstanding bonds of mutual respect, trust and brotherhood should not be undermined by conflict, division or hostility, describing the relationship between the two communities as an important foundation for regional peace and stability.
The civil society and political representatives called on the relevant authorities, traditional and community leaders, and other stakeholders to prioritize civilian protection, uphold human dignity, ensure justice and strengthen dialogue and reconciliation.
They also urged all parties to exercise wisdom and restraint, stressing that preventing violence and preserving peaceful relations require collective responsibility and decisive action.
“No conflict should divide neighbours. No difference should justify violence,” the statement said, reaffirming that protecting innocent lives and preserving generations of peaceful coexistence must remain a shared commitment.
The appeal comes amid growing calls for calm, justice and restraint, with the protection of all civilians regardless of their ethnic background remaining essential to maintaining peace and social cohesion in Borama and across Somaliland.