Resistance Against Villa Somalia’s Khaatumo Plan from Top Traditional Leaders

Laascaanood (Axadle Times International) — In an unprecedented and powerful public address, two esteemed traditional leaders from Northern Somalia have posed a substantial challenge to Villa Somalia’s ambitions to establish a new federal entity known as Khaatumo. Their words might stir a moment of reflection—what does true leadership demand in such complex times?

Garaad Jaamac Garaad Cali and Suldaan Siciid Suldaan Cabdisalaan, representing the revered elders of the Sool and Sanaag regions, took the stage on a significant Thursday night. Their live address reverberated across Somalia’s political landscape. The message was clear and strong: they refused to endorse the political initiative being driven by some Khaatumo-affiliated politicians with the support of Somalia’s Federal Government.

Consider the legacy of Garaad Jaamac. A veteran leader, highly respected in Somali traditional circles, he has remained a steadfast voice for unity and integrity. He stood firm, labeling the proposed Khaatumo State conference “illegitimate and divisive.” Addressing the public directly, he asserted that the Warsangeli community in Sanaag “will not be coerced into attending a process they are not informed about.” His statement echoes a timeless truth: Authentic representation cannot exist without genuine consensus.

Garaad’s stance is not just recent rhetoric; it has been a constant thread over the past 15 years. It’s about a principle that doesn’t shift with political tides. “The people of Sanaag and Haylaan must never be spoken for without their consent,” he reiterated, a belief rooted deeply in the values of community autonomy.

Joining Garaad was Suldaan Siciid Suldaan Cabdisalaan, who further solidified the position. He declared unequivocally that no one from Sanaag would partake in or support this conference. A heartfelt reminder flowed through his words, urging the Sool residents to value their Sanaag brothers, who have historically stood resiliently together in their shared struggles.

For many observers, these declarations deliver a major blow to the credibility of the Khaatumo initiative, raising questions about the federal government’s approach. Is the drive towards a new administrative structure heedlessly dismissing the voice of its intended constituents?

Villa Somalia is already navigating turbulent waters. With issues like Al-Shabaab’s insurgency, internal political fractures, and a looming post-term transition, this fresh wave of criticism complicates their landscape. Accusations are intensifying—Mogadishu seems accused of undermining Northeastern State’s territorial cohesion through an exclusionary, possibly unconstitutional process.

The powerful declarations by Garaad Jaamac and Suldaan Siciid not only highlight Somalia’s internal divisions but mark a growing wave of resistance. Regional power centers are becoming more vocal against the central government’s perceived overreach. Are we witnessing the dawn of a new chapter in Somalia’s enduring quest for political balance?

In an evolving Somalia, these voices from Sool and Sanaag remind us that traditional leadership, with its roots in collective respect and historical wisdom, still holds an invaluable place in shaping the nation. And as we reflect on this episode, perhaps we can ask ourselves—how can these traditional values harmoniously coexist with modern governance?