Somali Minister Refutes Claims of Withholding Ex-PM Roble’s Passport
Mogadishu (AX): In the ever-tumultuous world of international diplomacy, intrigue is not uncommon. This week, Somali State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Mohamed Omar Balcad found himself at the center of a diplomatic sparring match. Allegations have surfaced from former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, accusing the ministry of hindering his diplomatic passport clearance, preventing a timely visit to South Africa.
In a candid interview on Friday with a local television channel, Minister Balcad sought to clarify the situation. He calmly explained that the South African authorities had approached Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry to verify the credentials of Roble’s delegation. Balcad affirmed, “The delegation was indeed invited, and any claims of impediment from our side lack substantiation.”
However, the waters were muddied further when MP Abdullahi Arab, a prominent figure involved in the matter, took to Facebook with rather pointed allegations. He asserted that Minister Balcad himself halted the clearance letter, adding layers to what seems like an administrative labyrinth. “When the letter was stalled and time pressed upon us, I sought intervention from the Speaker of Parliament to procure a visa. Alas, not all in the delegation were as fortunate.”
Here we pause to ponder: in a world interconnected through vast networks of diplomacy, why do such barriers persist? Are they mere administrative oversights, or do they hint at deeper political shadings?
In a surprising twist, former Prime Minister Roble shared further insights into their struggle. He recounted how the delegation had lodged their application at the Somali Embassy in Kenya. Despite their early submission, it languished, untouched for 20 days, a delay sowing chaos and thwarting travel plans for many delegates.
In what could be seen as a testament to his unwavering resolve, Roble found a way to South Africa. Thanks to his Swedish passport, a legacy of his naturalized citizenship, he succeeded in leading the mission. Alongside him were former Minister of Education Abdullahi Arab, Gaani, ex-State Minister for Planning, and the past Banadir regional secretary-general, Xiireey. Despite formidable obstacles, they persevered.
In an echo of the global mobility era, reports suggest several delegation members journeyed using alternate European passports. It stirs a fascinating dialogue on the role of dual nationality in contemporary diplomacy. Do we see it as a privilege reserved for the fortunate few, or might it be a necessary lifeline to circumvent bureaucracies gone awry?
In a world continuously striving for seamless connectivity, such incidents highlight the cracks in our systems. Stories of roadblocks and detours serve as reminders. They call us to reassess and reform how we perceive and engage with diplomatic protocols. Above all, they urge us to retain our human element — one that embraces both the marvels of diversity and the intricacies that come with it.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International Monitoring.
