Somalia PM’s Las Anod Visit Sparks New Discussion on Federal Status for SSC-Khaatumo

LAS ANOD, Somalia – In the heart of Somalia’s northern territory, a visit by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has ignited an intriguing conversation about the future recognition of SSC-Khaatumo. This speculation arises following the ejection of North Western State of Somalia forces from Las Anod city this year.

The Prime Minister extended an invitation to SSC-Khaatumo to participate in the forthcoming summit of the Federal Government and several Federal Member States, slated for May 1st and 2nd. It’s worth remembering that the previous meeting of the National Consultative Council in October 2024 did not yield fruitful results.

With this invitation, one might wonder, is the Prime Minister signaling an implicit acknowledgment of the region as an interim federal entity? Especially when Nairobi seems to be losing its grip, having alienated allies like Northeastern State and Jubaland, who are increasingly asserting their autonomy.

During his address in Las Anod, PM Hamza Abdi Barre definitively stated, “SSC-Khaatumo is part of the Federal Republic, not a disputed territory.” His visit carried a weighty emotional charge. “Witnessing your unwavering unity in upholding the flag and the integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia was heartwarming,” Barre shared with palpable emotion. Picture the blue of our flag waving across the northern skies—this is unity in its truest form.

Barre’s sentiments are clear. “Now, more than ever, the Somali people are yearning for peace and unity. My historic pilgrimage to Las Anod underscores our unwavering commitment to these ideals,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud shed light on another dimension of the visit. According to him, Barre’s travels aim to foster dialogue about the turmoil in the region, which remains nebulous. “Remember, North Western State of Somalia is an inseparable part of Somalia,” Mohamud commented, drawing an intriguing parallel to US efforts in the Middle East. How often do global conflicts find echoes in smaller skirmishes?

However, North Western State of Somalia’s response was swift and stern. They issued a statement condemning Barre’s journey, positing that any resultant friction in the contested territories should fall squarely on Mogadishu’s shoulders. As Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, affectionately known as Irro, put it, “This reckless excursion by Somalia’s Prime Minister into North Western State of Somalia’s territory—I ask, are they truly prepared to bear the consequences?”

In contrast, expressions from SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdikadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, also known as Firdhiye, offered a more amicable perspective. He embraced the Prime Minister’s initiative, highlighting the region’s readiness to cooperate with the federal government on advancing development projects. Today, Somalia’s federation consists of five states: Northeastern State, Jubaland, Hirshabelle, Southwest, and Galmudug.

Yet, observing the complex matrix of Somali politics, both Jubaland and Northeastern State are currently distanced from the federal structure, challenging the existing federalism framework under Mohamud’s governance. Meanwhile, North Western State of Somalia persists independently, steadfast in its quest for international recognition.

In the grand scheme of things, one must ponder: What shape will Somalia’s federation take as these dynamics unfold? Will SSC-Khaatumo eventually become a sixth federal player? And what lessons can be drawn from a visit whose ripples might yet redefine Somalia’s political landscape?

AXADLETM