Thursday, June 26, 2025 — HAN News
Mogadishu – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, Speaker of the House of the People, Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu Dr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein (Muungaab), and other senior officials attended a ceremony this evening at Mogadishu City Hall marking the 65th anniversary of the Northern Regions gaining independence.
The event, part of the annual “Freedom Week” celebrations which this year received extensive preparation, was attended by ministers, members of parliament, and a wide range of community representatives. Various speeches were delivered reflecting on the history of Somali unity and the long struggle for independence.
The Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, Dr. Muungaab, opened the ceremony, noting that 65 years later, Mogadishu residents are now standing in long lines to register for one-person-one-vote elections – a major step forward in state-building and strengthening national identity.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre extended congratulations to the Somali people on the occasion and emphasized that now is the time for Somalis to reinforce unity, solidarity, and build a strong foundation for a stable nation. “Sixty-five years later, we must underline the divisions we still suffer from – tribalism and fragmentation. It is time to correct our mistakes and approach the future with wisdom and vision,” he said.
The Prime Minister also recalled the sacrifices made by Somali heroes who led the fight for independence, emphasizing that this struggle paved the way for the unity that was achieved on July 1st, when the Northern and Southern regions united to form the Somali Republic.
At the close of the event, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud congratulated the entire Somali nation, particularly those in the North, highlighting the importance of preserving national unity. He expressed the government’s regret for past mistakes and stated that Somalia is committed to reconciliation and cohesion.
President Hassan Sheikh also said that three decades of disunity have clearly demonstrated that progress cannot be achieved without national unity. He praised citizens and political leaders who have consistently advocated for togetherness and solidarity.
All the leaders who spoke at the June 26 celebration reaffirmed that Somalia has made significant progress in areas such as economic development, security, the fight against terrorism, military rebuilding, and social infrastructure. They also noted that further major national initiatives are currently underway.
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