By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somali political figure Abuukar Dahit Osman knonwn as Baale has declared that “Somaliland no longer exists,” a statement that is likely to intensify political tensions over Somalia’s northern regions.
Ambassor Baale made the remarks during a meeting marking Somalia’s assumption of the presidency of the United Nations Security Council, according to attendees and local media reports.
In his speech, Baale argued that areas commonly referred to as Somaliland are no longer unified under a single political authority. He claimed that the northeastern regions are under the authority of the Federal Government of Somalia, while the Awdal region supports Somali unity, rejecting Somaliland’s long-standing bid for independence.
“Somaliland, as a political entity, no longer exists,” Baale said, asserting that internal divisions and shifting political loyalties have weakened the separatist project.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of the central government. Although it has operated with its own administration, security forces, and electoral processes for more than three decades, it has not been recognized as a sovereign state by the international community.
Baale’s comments come at a sensitive diplomatic moment, as Somalia seeks to strengthen its international standing following years of conflict and instability. Analysts say such statements could further strain relations between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, particularly amid ongoing disputes over governance, territory, and international engagement.
Somaliland authorities did not immediately respond to Baale’s remarks.
