AYNABO (KAAB TV) – Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi has responded to recent remarks by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland on January 1, 2024.
The MOU grants Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through a military base and port in Somaliland, while Somaliland seeks full recognition as an independent state, separate from Somalia.
In response to President Hassan Sheikh’s description of the MOU as a “violation of Somalia’s sovereignty,” President Bihi remarked, “It’s as if nothing has happened by trying to ignore the history between Somalia and Somaliland.”
President Bihi reiterated that Somaliland will maintain its stance on independence and issued a warning to foreign powers attempting to pressure Somaliland into reuniting with Somalia. He specifically criticized Egypt for its efforts to influence Somaliland’s decision. “If Egypt cares about anything, let them help the people of Palestine,” he stated.
Somaliland has been pushing for international recognition and is determined to proceed with its plans, including holding elections and defending its territory from any external threats. President Bihi also underscored that Somaliland would continue to conduct its elections as scheduled, with the next poll set for November 13, 2024.
The situation is further complicated by the regional dynamics, as Egypt, which has an ongoing dispute with Ethiopia over the Nile waters, recently signed a military pact with Somalia’s federal government in Mogadishu.
President Bihi made these remarks while on a tour of several regions in Somaliland, during which he also campaigned for re-election ahead of the November poll. On Sunday, he visited a military base in Oog town, where he oversaw the readiness of Somaliland forces.
General Nuh Tani, speaking at the military base, emphasized that the army is prepared to secure Somaliland’s borders, which traditionally include the contested area of Laascaanood, without explicitly naming it. “We hope to restore our victory and reach there,” General Nuh Tani stated.
Laascaanood is currently under the administration of the SSC-Khaatumo following a battle in August 2023 between Somaliland forces and Dhulbahante forces.