By Senior Journalist Abdiaziz Ahmed Barrow
HIIRAAN — The ongoing political developments in Somalia’s Hiiraan region are increasingly centred on three major principles: respecting the will of the people, protecting national institutions and ensuring the region has a meaningful role in shaping Somalia’s political future.
The position reflects growing calls for constitutional rights, inclusive governance and political recognition amid tensions involving Villa Somalia, the Jowhar administration and local leadership.
1. Defending the Will and Constitutional Rights of Hiiraan’s People
The first principle is to ensure that the aspirations of Hiiraan’s population are respected through constitutionally guaranteed rights, the rule of law and respect for human dignity.
This vision is rooted in democratic values, civil rights and an inclusive system of governance in which political authority is exercised fairly and state institutions serve all citizens.
It also challenges what critics describe as competing political agendas between Villa Somalia and the Jowhar administration, arguing that the people of Hiiraan should have the freedom to determine their political priorities.
2. Safeguarding National Security and State Institutions
The second principle focuses on protecting national security, preserving state institutions and preventing political divisions from escalating into instability.
According to this position, Hiiraan does not want to become involved in political developments that could undermine national unity or weaken Somalia’s state institutions.
Ugaas Yusuf appears to be pursuing a path centred on traditional leadership, community responsibility and political restraint, with the stated objective of protecting his community from further political uncertainty.
His approach could become a significant chapter in the region’s political history.
3. Restoring Hiiraan’s Role in Somalia’s Political Future
The third principle highlights Hiiraan’s historical significance as a centre of leadership and political movements in Somalia.
Supporters of this position argue that the region must not be sidelined in the country’s evolving political landscape. Instead, Hiiraan should have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting its people and Somalia as a whole.
A striking political metaphor describes the journey from Feer-Feer through Jowhar and ultimately to Wardhiigley in Mogadishu.
The message is that without political consensus, collective understanding and a unified direction, the journey could become increasingly difficult.
The vehicle has already been fuelled and is moving forward. However, the critical question remains whether political leaders can agree on a common direction before tensions make the journey more complicated.
The Bigger Picture
The political struggle in Hiiraan goes beyond regional disagreements. It raises fundamental questions about constitutional rights, political representation, federalism, national unity and the role of traditional leadership in Somalia’s political future.
Ultimately, the central message is that Hiiraan is demanding constitutional respect, meaningful political representation and the right of its people to participate in determining the future of their region and the Somali state.
The coming political developments will test the ability of national and regional leaders to find common ground through dialogue, constitutional principles and mutual respect.
