Friday January 2, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) - Several politicians from Somaliland, including lawmakers and ministers currently based in Mogadishu, have urged the Federal Government of Somalia to avoid actions that could negatively affect the economy, freedom of movement, and security of people living in Somaliland.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the politicians warned that punitive or forceful measures would not advance national unity and could further destabilise an already fragile situation.
“The Federal Government of Somalia should refrain from taking measures that could harm the economy, movement, and security of the Somali people living in Somaliland, as forceful actions will never bring unity,” the statement said.
They also called for an end to hate speech and rhetoric that could deepen divisions among Somalis, stressing the need for dialogue and peaceful engagement to resolve disputes between Somaliland and the central government.
The group emphasised that outstanding disagreements should be addressed through negotiations, cautioning against the use of force or economic pressure, which they said would only exacerbate tensions.
In addition, the politicians urged Somaliland’s leadership to return to the negotiating table in order to reach a lasting and peaceful settlement, highlighting the importance of stability, peace, and national unity for the Somali people.
The politicians did not comment on Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland or issue a condemnation of the move.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced last week that Israel would recognise Somaliland as an independent state, becoming the first UN member state to do so. The decision prompted strong reactions from Somalia and drew criticism from several African and Middle Eastern countries, as well as from the European Union.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but had not previously received formal recognition from any United Nations member state until Israel’s announcement last Friday.