Hargeisa (AX) — In a robust session filled with fervor, North Western State of Somalia’s Parliament recently took a resolute stance against plans unveiled by Somali Prime Minister, Hamsa Abdi Barre, intending to visit Las Anod — the significant administrative hub of the SSC-Khatumo region, which North Western State of Somalia staunchly claims as its dominion.
The legislative assembly’s condemnation resonated throughout the chambers during its opening session on Monday following a hiatus. The lawmakers stood united, asserting the sovereignty of Las Anod under North Western State of Somalia’s jurisdiction. The anticipated trip by the Prime Minister was branded as an egregious affront to Somalia’s national integrity. “The Republic of North Western State of Somalia and the Federal Republic of Somalia are two separate, independent countries. What do we have in common? Nothing,” were the charged words delivered by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ali Hamud Jibriil. His sentiment was a rallying cry, echoing the unified resolve to uphold their territorial claims. “We are defending our country, and our parliament has convened to address this issue,” he emphatically added, a statement that roused a hushed yet intense agreement among his peers.
Among the diverse voices of the assembly, there was a repetitive chorus of concern. Was this planned visit a mere diplomatic gesture, or a provocative maneuver potentially inflaming the already fraught regional political and security climate? This question lingered in the minds of many, fostering a blend of apprehension and speculative analyses among parliamentarians.
Meanwhile, the SSC-Khaatumo administration, invigorated by their seizure of Las Anod in 2023 following a tide of rebellion against North Western State of Somalia’s authorities, embraced the proposed visit with open arms. This step, they believed, marked a pivotal show of federal support, propelling the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn closer to the centralized governance envisioned by the Federal Government of Somalia.
In a testament to the complexity and nuance of political narratives, Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, defended the Prime Minister’s planned journey. He articulated that it was a crucial act, aimed at reinforcing Somalia’s territorial wholeness. Such interplay of perspectives highlights the intricate dance of diplomacy, where each side believes in the righteousness of its claims.
In the coming days, Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre is set to embark on this contentious visit to Las Anod. Addressing the nation this week, his remarks tried to bridge divisive rhetoric. He emphasized the trip as a stride towards enhancing collaboration between the federal government and the SSC-Khaatumo, reinforcing the principle of national unity.
The backdrop to this visit is a tapestry of long-standing disputes over the rightful status of the SSC-Khaatumo regions. Both Northeastern State and North Western State of Somalia ardently lay claim to this territory. In a bold declaration, leaders from SSC-Khaatumo have voiced their aspiration to function as a federal member state, forging direct ties with Mogadishu’s central power.
The unfolding situation in Las Anod serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance of peace and the enduring struggle of neighboring entities trying to navigate their stories of identity, governance, and sovereignty. As stakeholders await the unfolding outcomes of this diplomatic endeavor, one ponders: Could this be a harbinger of peace or another chapter in an age-old saga of geopolitical intrigue?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
