Political Dynamics in Northern Somalia: A Statement from Traditional Elders

Garowe (AX) — On a pivotal Wednesday, a collective of respected traditional elders from the Sanaag and Haylaan regions made headlines by issuing a strong statement against efforts to integrate their territories into the newly endorsed SSC-Khaatumo administration. As significant political figures and fellow elders prepare to gather for a major conference in Las Anod next week, the stakes have never been higher.

These elders assert that both Sanaag and Haylaan have been integral parts of Northeastern State since its inception in 1998. Their deep-rooted ties to the state are not merely institutional; they resonate within the very fabric of the communities, shaped by decades of shared governance and cultural exchange. “To disregard our historical connections is to disregard our identity,” they stated. This is a sentiment that echoes in the hearts of many individuals who have witnessed the transformations within these regions over the decades.

In their powerful declaration, the elders underscored a crucial point: no local political conference had taken place among their clans that would warrant the participation of their representatives in the SSC-Khaatumo State Completion Conference, scheduled to commence on July 10 in Las Anod. The term “legitimate political decision” was emphasized as they firmly denied any authorization granted to individuals attending the upcoming conference. The elders’ words are a reminder that in politics, genuine representation is paramount—something often overshadowed by competing interests.

Moreover, they called for a formal apology from SSC-Khaatumo, highlighting what they termed as unwarranted interference in the internal dynamics of the Sanaag and Haylaan communities. Their accusation is not merely about politics; it strikes at the core of regional unity, stability, and the longstanding relationships that have developed among neighboring clans. How do we maintain peace when external forces sow discord? These elders, seasoned by experience, seem to grasp this delicate balance keenly.

Their appeal extends beyond local borders; they’ve reached out to the international community, emphasizing their non-involvement in any new administrative setup or political pact. They resolutely stated that they have not delegated any form of authority to representatives heading to the Las Anod conference. This plea is significant, especially considering the historical context within which these relationships evolve. It’s a reminder of how power dynamics can sometimes overshadow genuine community interests.

Furthermore, the elders urged the Federal Government of Somalia to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities, cautioning against actions that could ignite divisions among clans with deep-rooted connections. This raises a thought-provoking question: how can a government act as a unifying force in a land fragmented by political ambitions? The concerns articulated by the elders serve as a stark warning against political interference that could unravel the fragile peace prevailing in northern Somalia.

The timing of this statement is particularly noteworthy. It arrived just a day after former Northeastern State Parliament Speaker Abdirashid Yusuf Jibriil entered Las Anod with a delegation he asserts represents the voices of Sanaag and Haylaan. His arrival has stirred emotions, not least because he accused Northeastern State President Said Abdullahi Deni of sending 5,000 troops to apply pressure on local communities and exploit regional resources. Points like these reveal the complexities entrenched in the relationship between governance and resource distribution. The people of these regions find themselves at the crossroads, pondering their rights and safety in a tumultuous political climate.

In a striking declaration, Jibriil proclaimed that his communities are prepared to seek independence from both Northeastern State and North Western State of Somalia. This assertion sheds light on a deeper yearning for autonomy—a theme that resonates across many tribal and regional dynamics in Somalia. With aspirations for self-determination brewing beneath the surface, one must ponder: what does the future hold for a people eager to chart their own course?

The escalating tensions illuminate the widening rift between Northeastern State, the federal government, and the SSC-Khaatumo administration concerning territorial claims and clan representation in northern Somalia. As the fateful conference in Las Anod looms, the atmosphere grows more charged with uncertainty and volatility. Will this gathering provide a platform for dialogue, or will it deepen existing divides? Only time will tell.

The elders’ resolute stance offers a moment for reflection. As communities like Sanaag and Haylaan grapple with their identities within a changing political landscape, the challenge remains: How can they navigate these tumultuous waters while striving for stability and harmony?

We find ourselves asking, as these narratives unfold, what role we can play in fostering an environment of understanding and respect. In an interconnected world, are we not all responsible for nurturing peace, even from afar?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring