KAMPALA, Uganda – Northern Somalia’s bid for international recognition suffered a significant setback on Saturday when Uganda President Yoweri Museveni rejected the idea of secession. Instead, he called for unity between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, despite recent unsuccessful talks between the two parties.
During a meeting with Northern Somalia’s representative to Uganda, Jama Musse Jama, President Museveni emphasized the importance of embracing mutual interests over identity politics. He stated that the challenges faced by the people are similar regardless of race or religion.
President Museveni, who has held power since 1986, expressed his willingness to mediate between Mogadishu and Hargeisa, urging them to promote trade and cooperation with other African nations.
“I have agreed to take on the role of a peace facilitator between the two. A country’s internal market alone is inadequate; therefore, Northern Somalia and Somalia should unite, trade together, and engage in commerce with other African countries,” he remarked.
For the past thirty years, Northern Somalia has been striving for international recognition since its secession from Somalia. Despite the delay, it has operated as an independent government with its own Central Bank, legislature, and Judiciary.
In recent weeks, the Las Anod area of Northern Somalia has experienced unrest, with SSC-Khatumo forces attempting to secede from Northern Somalia and seek governance from Mogadishu. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and prompted the US to call for a cessation of hostilities from both sides.
AXADLE
