MOGADISHU — Former Somali Foreign Minister Dr. Abdisalaan Hadliye Omar has sparked discussion after making remarks on the long-running dispute over Somaliland’s declaration of independence, arguing that there is no clear international example of a breakaway region declaring separation without facing a response from the central government or the wider international community.
Speaking on the issue, Dr. Abdisalaan said that in most cases where regions have sought separation from internationally recognized states, governments and political actors have responded through legal, diplomatic, or political measures.
“There is no place in the world where a region has declared secession and no action or response has followed,” he said, highlighting what he described as the importance of addressing such disputes through established political processes.
His comments come amid continued debate over Somaliland’s status. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has maintained its own administration, security structures, and institutions for more than three decades. However, it has not received formal international recognition as an independent state, and Somalia’s federal government continues to consider Somaliland part of its territory.
Dr. Abdisalaan also emphasized that previous mistakes should not be addressed by creating new ones, calling for a careful approach focused on dialogue, reconciliation, and the long-term interests of Somali people.
“Past mistakes should not be corrected with another mistake,” he said, stressing the need for political wisdom and solutions that avoid further division.
The former minister’s remarks reflect a broader debate among Somali political figures, scholars, and communities over how to address the Somaliland question, with opinions divided between those supporting dialogue on Somalia’s unity and those advocating for recognition of Somaliland’s separate political status.
Somalia has faced decades of political challenges, including state reconstruction efforts, security threats, and disputes over governance. Analysts say resolving the Somaliland issue remains one of the country’s most sensitive political questions and will require sustained engagement among Somali stakeholders.
Regional and international partners have repeatedly encouraged dialogue between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, emphasizing peaceful negotiations as the preferred path for addressing political differences.
