Matt Baugh

Ambassador to Somalia

Part of UK in Somalia

27th January 2012 Nairobi, Kenya

London Conference on Somalia: Political Process

Reading all of the comments on my three previous blogs has clearly reminded me (as if I needed reminding) that Somalis around the globe love political debate. That is why I am so glad that this blog is beginning to provide a forum for a large number of people to express their views.

Those views have been wide-ranging and usually heartfelt. And if you have left a comment so far you are probably aware that someone has to approve your comments before they are actually posted. You may also have noticed that so far almost every comment has been approved. The only ones that we haven’t approved were those that used highly offensive language or were deeply insulting or abusive to others. I am pleased to say that very few have fallen into this category so far, while the debate about values, systems and society has been vibrant and generally respectful of others’ views.

Talking about values, systems and society, in as open a way as possible, is a key part of participating in the political process. And the political process is one of the subjects that will be discussed by the international community and Somalis at the London Conference. Because now is a critical time. Here’s my take on why:

The UK and the international community continues to support the Djibouti Peace Process and continues to work closely with the Transitional Federal Institutions (TFIs) to bring an end to the transition. The TFIs have until August 2012 to complete the transitional tasks. That the TFG and regional entities have agreed a comprehensive programme of work – the Roadmap – is welcome; as is the fact that they decided in Garowe, as part of the Garowe Principles, to hold a Constituent Assembly.

To be successful in helping take Somalia out of conflict, the Garowe process needs to be representative, and mechanisms should be found to ensure that all communities in Somalia, including those in the south, are represented in the discussion. This is about placing the Somali people at the heart of the process – in short, what you might call ‘Garowe-Plus’.

Time is tight. Experience suggests that such a process is fraught with difficulty. What should such a process look like? Well, for me, the by-words of any political process need to be ‘representative’, ‘participatory’, ‘bottom-up’. Even then, though, a number of questions remain – such as who and how to select participants? It will be for Somalis to decide on the key questions, such as whether the state should be federal or centralised, whether to have a Presidential or Cabinet system of government,  and what its constitutional responsibilities should be. In taking forward this important debate, the international community has a role to play to help ensure that the process is representative.

What do you think of progress on the Roadmap? What should follow the Transition? Who should have a say and why – a small group or a broad national dialogue? Tell me what you think below, or on Facebook or Twitter.

293 comments on “London Conference on Somalia: Political Process

  1. Wow, wonderful blog layout! How long have you been blogging for?
    you made blogging look easy. The overall look of your website is magnificent,
    as well as the content!

  2. Hey guys anyone interested in updating a somalia news site named somaliametro.com please contact me at somaliametro@gmail.com.

    The site belonged to someone who loved Somalia so much and wanted to keep the world updated on events there from politics to intertainment.Check it out and if you are interested please contact me so that I may show you how to do it cause its sipmle and straight forward and also wont take much of your time per day

  3. the atrocities that happened in somaliland during siyad barre’s reign is well documented.Whole cities destroyed from the air & on the ground,100,000s tortured,murdered,millions went to refuge camps.The genocide agenda of Morgan & Barre is in file.the world knows. It’s the same people talking much about one love somalia that put where it’s today.If you want anotha round so be it.

  4. This what happens anytime a foreign gov’t or army comes to mogadishu.All of a sudden the issue is somaliland..the somalia forget the dire situation they in & yet want to embark another disastrous campaign after 20yrs of continous bloodshed.No amount of crocodile tears will help those who destroyed somalia & now talking about reunification.Somaliland is strong enough not only to withstand your silly campaigns but to crush anyone mean harm againest us.No gov’t will militarily come to your help.The world is already tired of your endless conflict.You either fix your hut or end in never ending misery.How can you even talk about somaliland & war when the world is taken hostage by the stupidity been happening there last 20yrs.Shame on you.Don’t jump ahead of yourself If you really wana have a showdown with somaliland…is gona come & you be back to square one.Stuff & nonesense is what I see on otha side.

  5. Correction of typing error in my previous posting:

    Correctly it reads,

    “This does not concern the Khaatumo State of Somalia as this state is already officially a federal state within Somalia. Likewise, this will not affect Awdal State of Somalia and Makhir State of Somalia. All these states are in the north of Somalia, but has nothing to do with one clan secessionist agenda”

    Full text corrected reads as follows:

    “6. The Conference recognised the need for the international community to support any dialogue that Somaliland and the TFG or its replacement may agree to establish in order to clarify their future relations”

    Somaliland stands for what? Depends on whom you ask. It means something for the secessionists, it means something else for the somali unionits.

    Fair enough, when Somaliland represents the one clan secessionists (Isaaq). Absolutely, there is nothing wrong with the secessionist group talking with the legitimate Somali government to be accommodated within the mainstream political process – .

    This does not concern the Khaatumo State of Somalia as this state is already officially a federal state within Somalia. Likewise, this will not affect Awdal State of Somalia and Makhir State of Somalia. All these states are in the north of Somalia, but has nothing to do with one clan secessionist agenda.

    I apologize for the inconvenience.

  6. 6. The Conference recognised the need for the international community to support any dialogue that Somaliland and the TFG or its replacement may agree to establish in order to clarify their future relations

    Somaliland stands for what? Depends on whom you ask. It means something for the secessionists, it means something else for the somali unionits.

    Fair enough, when Somaliland represents the one clan secessionists (Isaaq). Absolutely, there is nothing wrong with the secessionist group talking with the legitimate Somali government to be accommodated within the mainstream political process – .

    This does concern the Khaatumo State of Somalia as this state is already officially a federal state within Somalia. Likewise, this will not affect Awdal State of Somalia and Makhir State of Somalia. All these states are in the north of Somalia, but has nothing to do with one clan secessionist agenda.

  7. At London Conference on Somalia, President of Somaliland calls on the international community to recognize his country
    London, 23 February 2012 —

    The President of Somaliland, Ahmed Mohamed Mohamud Silanyo, today attended the London Conference on Somalia. The Conference included political leaders from over 50 countries and international organizations, including US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
    In his statement to the Conference, the President said that peace and stability in Somalia “will not be achieved by the top-down imposition of a re-created centralized state,” noting the tendency of the international community to focus on approaches that over-emphasize the role of central government institutions in Mogadishu. He instead laid out his views on a bottom-up process to building peace and stability in Somalia, drawing lessons from what worked successfully in Somaliland in the early 1990s.
    President Silanyo said that he also firmly believed “that supporting and recognizing Somaliland would help to promote stability and recovery in Somalia.” He referred to Somaliland’s own experience of building “peace through an indigenous bottom-up process, drawing on traditional conflict resolution methods and Islam.”
    Somaliland rejects the view that Somalia should be reconstituted within the boundaries that existed up to 1991. In his statement, the President said that “[t]he people of Somaliland chose the path of independence more than 20 years ago and we cannot turn back. To do so would be to deny our recent history, our achievements, and our political reality.” He added that “[a]s a democratically elected government, we must respect our people’s wishes.” The President also called for “an inclusive international discussion about the future of Somaliland, launching a process leading to the recognition of our state.”
    Somaliland is a former British protectorate. It declared independence from Somalia in 1991 and has since enjoyed relative stability. It has held a series of democratic elections which have been deemed free and fair by international observers. Despite its impressive achievements, Somaliland has not been recognized internationally.
    ****
    source: MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

  8. 6. The Conference recognised the need for the international community to support any dialogue that Somaliland and the TFG or its replacement may agree to establish in order to clarify their future relations.

  9. Dear Ambassador,

    The population of Khaatumo State of Somalia have today February 22, 2012 held demonstrations in all Khaatumo State of Somalia territories (Almost every town and village) in which they supported the Somali Unity. The Khaatumo demonstrators everywhere have sent a strong message to the London Conference and the International Community to heed their resolve of Somali Unity and that no one should be fooled by the one clan secessionists who are demonstrating at 10 Downing Street in London today. The Khaatumo State of Somalia unionist population once again repeat the reality on the ground that the one clan secessionists in the North West region of Somalia are minority within Somalia and they can’t over-ride the resolve of the majority of the Somali people

    President Indhasheel’s has told the demonstrators that Khaatumo State of Somalia is officially a federal state within Somalia and said that the International Community and the participants of the London Conference know well the realities on the ground. He said the world knows the situation and the facts in both the unionist Khaatumo State of Somalia and in the secessionist North West Region of Somalia.

    Thank You,

    Click the following links to watch pictures and videos about the demonstrations held today Feb 22/2012 in Khaatumo State of Somalia and in support to the Somalia Unity
    http://www.realtaleex.com/2012/02/22/daawo-qudbadii-madaxwayne-indho-sheel-iyo-banaan-bixii-maanta-buuhoodle-ee-midnimada-somalia-lagu-taageerayey/

    The Interior Minister of Khaatumo State of Somalia speaking to the demonstrators in Buuhoodle condemned the shameful killing of at least 7 prisoners of war killed by Siilaanyo militia who attacked Buuhoodle in January 26, 2012. The militia of the one clan secessionist administration has executed these Khaatumo prisoners on direct orders from Mr. Siilaanyo as he gave the orders of the attack in the first place. This is not the first time Siilaanyo and his militia carry out executions on prisoners of war and other innocent nomads and civilians. This kind of criminal behavior of Mr. Siilaanyo has been extened since the early 1980s.

    The Interior Minister of Khaatumo State of Somalia has read the names of the latest prisoners of war the secessionists had executed in the end of January 2012, sent condolences to their families and loved ones, and also appealed to the International Community to respond to these barbaric and criminal acts that are the norm for the Somaliland secessionists and their leadership.

    The names of the executed prisoners of war who hail from Khaatumo are as follows:

    1. Kayse Samater Bahnan
    2. Omer Abdi hagi Haroun
    3. Farhan Abdillaahi Flash
    4. Khadar Adan Ismail
    5. Awil Beddel Goobseer
    6. Abdiweli Mohamoud Adam (Timaweyne)
    7. Omer Abdi Qaajo

    Click here to listen the minister reading the names of the executed

    http://www.realtaleex.com/2012/02/22/wasiirka-arimaha-gudaha-maamulka-khaatumo-state-oo-tacsi-u-diray-7-kamid-ah-maxabiis-ay-maamulka-somaliland-ku-dilen-jidkavideo/

    The Buuhoodle demonstration to support Somalia’s Unity

    http://www.realtaleex.com/2012/02/22/daawo-sawiro-iyo-video-banaan-bixii-maanta-buuhoodle-ka-dhacay-ee-lagu-taageersanaa-midnimadda-somalia/

    http://allssc.com/?p=23012

    Samples of the demonstrations in Tuka-Raq, Taleeh, Huddun, awr-Boogays, kalabaydh, Boocame, and Widhwidh and other places

    http://allssc.com/?p=23038

  10. Mr. Abassador
    Today, tens of thousands(roughly) of Somalilanders from all over the UK and other parts of Europe are assembling in front of number 10 Downing Street. The masses gathering there are united in one and only one thing.
    To send the flowing clear message to the orginizers and participants of the London Conference on Somalia: Political Process. The link below will give you the full story/message.
    http://oodweynenews.com/articles/146904-the-day-of-reckoning-for-the-president-of-somaliland-by-ahmed-ali-ibrahim-sabeyse.html
    Thank you

  11. Utility: Lessons from Somaliland
    Somaliland’s forbidding landscape – sandy desert, volcanic rock and thorn bushes in temperatures up to 45 degrees, with roaming camels and goats – disguises a huge potential. The port of Berbera exports millions of dollars’ worth of livestock to the Middle East every year. The holding pens at the port hold 400,000 animals – not big enough, port director Ali Omer Mohammed told me. They are building a facility to hold a million animals at a time. “Camel herders drive their herds 2,500km from Kismayu near the Kenyan border because our systems are reliable and port taxes low,” he said.

    More remarkable still is Somaliland Beverage Industries – a soft drinks factory outside Hargeisa, built by a group of young Somali investors who put in $15 million – and managed to persuade the Coca Cola Company that a franchise in an unrecognised country neighbouring a 20-year conflict zone was worth backing. The plant is as modern as any I have seen.

    The obvious problem for that factory and most other industries in Somaliland is the lack of infrastructure. Local businesses pool their resources to lay sections of tarmac. But most roads are simply sandy tracks. Neighbouring Djibouti has a fine highway built with European Union funding – Somaliland’s unrecognised status means it can’t get that sort of help.

    Somalilanders say they deserve better because they have established a clan-based system that works. They say the British didn’t destroy the traditional power of the elders but co-opted them. In Somalia Italiana, Italian colonisers broke the power of the clan elders, they say, and that has led to the present chaos.
    http://www.monitor.co.ug/artsculture/Reviews/-/691232/1331224/-/item/2/-/12u8y9e/-/index.html

  12. In an interview with the secessionist website “togaherer”, the legend Statesman and unionist professor Ismail Mohamud Hurre “Buubaa” has supported the establishment of Khaatumo State of Somalia, Awdal State of Somalia, and other regional administrations he says appear to be in pipeline, without giving specifics, within the northern part of Somalia. Mr. Ismail Buubaa had been at one point the Foreign Minister in the TNG of Somalia from 2001 – 2004. Also, for clarification purpose Mr. Ismail Buubaa hails from the Isaaq clan where you can find a lot of unionists, but face punishment and persecution in expressing their views openly on the hand of the secessionist administration in Hargeysa.

    Here are important highlights of his interview:

    – The population of Khaatumo State of Somalia were never part of the unilateral secession

    – Khaatumo State of Somalia population have all the rights to determine their own political direction and that it’s known to all their resolve to remain within a united Somalia

    – On the issue of the ferocious attacks the one clan secessionist administration keeps on the Khaatumo of Somalia territory, Mr. Ismail Buubaa has made it known that Khaatumo State of Somalia has no blame on their part, but stressed that it’s the Somaliland forces are the ones carring out the raids and aggression

    – Ans, on how he sees the solution, professor Buubaa did not mince his words, he says “….Siilaanyo must pull his militia out of the Khaatumo State of Somalia boundaries

    – He advices Mr. Siilaanyo and his secessionist supporters to come to their senses, stop the hostilities, pull their militia back, and use wisely the opportunity availed by the London Conference and the British Government and embrace the Somali Unity again where all Somali Stakeholders find a win win situation and everyone is appropriately accommodated

    – Mr. Ismail Mohamud Hurre “Buubaa” has mentioned one crucial point that he was a senoir member of the rebellion Somali National Movement (SNM) and that the SNM charter and principles never included secession to divide Somalia, and he maintains that principle. This is an evidence that later in 1991 the agreed upon principles of the SNM were hijacked and had been misplaced

    Togaherer Website is commended on this interview because it’s a brave under- taking given this kind of reporting is in short supply due to the circumstances of media harassment and jailing that is prevalent in the one clan secessionist enclave

    Click this link to listen to the interview:

    http://toggaherernews.com/pro-ismaaciil-buubaa-oo-taageeray-ku-dhawaaqista-khaatumo-state-sheegayna-in-qaar-kale-dhawaan-lagaga-dhawaaqi-doono-somaliland-waraysi-qaybtii-labaad/

  13. Below are links regarding samples of the celebrations held around the world for the establishment of Khaatumo State of Somalia. All Somalis except the diehard secessionists have welcomed this historic development. Khaatumo State of Somalia is seen by Somalis, political and military observers and analysts to be the model for Somalia.

    In some of the celebrations, Professor Ali Khalif Glaydh a member of the G9 of Khaatumo State of Somalia is the keynote speaker after he returned back from the successful Taleex Conference in which he was a prominent participant.

    London UK

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgqK0o2Hy00

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDu6mKhjbRA&feature=youtu.be

    Minneapolis, Minnesota USA

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRNdSOZmncU

    Las- Anod Khaatumo State of Somalia

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3Qmpr7ISXs

    Buuhoodle, Khaatumo State of Somalia

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqnzeRqHYbc

    Boorame, Awdal Sate of Somalia

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_7RkmktYVM

    Toronto Canada

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWnNG2PQGN0

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxxxFBFWnA4

    Melbourne Australia

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3Qmpr7ISXs

    Attlanta Georgia, USA

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FAyEgAxcYE

    Birmingham, UK

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaBkrI-CsUI

    Columbus Ohio, USA

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JSj8BNo6HI

    Oslo, Norway

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge43KeFrOVs

    Toronto Canada

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1of_QNu2XI

    Seattle USA

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcZMjPNuUgs

    Ottawa, Canada

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ui_KaLc8Cj4

    This video combines many celebrations for Khaatumo around the world

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_061t8BdQuk

    Copenhagen, Denmar

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=VXSVlOxh0WE

    And a lot more

  14. We rarely agree with the President of Puntland, Abdirahman Faroole, but no doubt he hit the nail on the head when he characterized the political operatives who hijacked the Taleeh meeting and declared Khaatumo xumo as a bunch of political failures who were trying to use that meeting as a way to resurrect their political careers. Some might argue that this is an unfair characterization of a whole group of people, and they have every right to debate the issue. But what can hardly be debated is the characterization of the leader of the Khatumo xumo group, Ali Khalif Galaydh, as an emblem of failure in Somali politics. For anyone who is familiar with Somali politics, this statement is so self-evident it does not need further elaboration. But for the sake of those who may have any doubt, let us just say that Ali Khalif Galaydh had served on two different administrations. The first one was when he was a minister in Muhammad Siyad Barre’s dictatorship. His association with that regime came to a sensational end when, as many Somalis will tell you, he fled on a plane full of looted money. His second stint was when he became prime minister in Abdiqasim Salad Hasan’s Transitional National Government (TNG). Like the previous episode, his premiership collapsed with charges of embezzlement leveled against him by President Abdiqasim Salad Hasan. His checkered past had even spurred Professor Abdi Samatar to write a letter to the administration of the University of Minnesota alerting them to Galaydh’s corruption and asking them not to hire him. He had two opportunities and both them ended in political failure and charges of embezzlement. This is his record in internal Somali politics.
    His record in foreign affairs is no better. What particularly stood out when he was prime minister of the TNG, was how he mismanaged relations with Ethiopia. He ritually blamed Ethiopia for most of Somalia’s ills, including the dysfunction of his government. As he put it, “Soon after the completion of the Arte conference we heard of Ethiopian concerns about the presence of Islamic fundamentalists who posed a security threat to Ethiopia.”
    Mr Galaydh particularly relished shaming Ethiopia in the UN Security Council where in January 11, 2001, he made these charges against Ethiopia:
    “The TNG believes firmly that it has addressed the stated Ethiopian concerns adequately. Unfortunately our concerns which are becoming more and more serious are not being acknowledged let alone addressed. The facts on the ground are the following:
    Ethiopia has been occupying towns in the Gedo Region – Bulo Hawo, Dolo and Lugh – since 1996. The presence of Ethiopian forces has been increasing more recently and the civilian population is being subjected to systematic intimidation and detention. Fourteen prominent local personalities were the latest to be detained in the last few days;
    Contrary to Security Council resolutions Ethiopia is giving arms, ammunitions, and supplies to groups opposed to the TNG, including a group based in Mogadishu;
    Ethiopia is aggressively recruiting, training and arming militias in Gedo, Middle Juba, Lower Juba, Bay, Bakool and Hiran.”
    One of the ironies in Ali Khalif Galaydh’s political career is that he also used to accuse Ethiopia of dividing Somalia into what he derisively would refer to as Bantustans or lands, like Somaliland, Puntland, Hiiraanland, and Juba land. In that same speech at the UN Security Council, he even opposed attempts by Rahanwein leaders to set up their own administration, and argued, “In pursuing its ‘Building Blocs’ policy, Ethiopia is orchestrating from Godey the creation of yet another administrative entity – the so-called South West State.”
    The same Ali Khalif is now saying he wants to set up an administration for his clan and is begging Ethiopia for safe passage. If that is not the epitome of political failure, we don’t know what is.
    http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2012/525/2.shtml

  15. Dear Ambassador,

    The Vice president and member of the rotating Presidency Council of Khaatumo State of Somalia Mr Abdi-noor Elmi Biindhe and high ranking delegation of Khaatumo State of Somalia are visiting Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. This delegation includes members of the Ministerial Council of Khaatumo State of Somalia (Minister of International Relations, Minister of Security and others), members of the Traditional Council of Khaatumo State of Somalia lead by the Grand Garaad of Khaatumo State of Somalia Garaad jama Garaad Ali Garaad Jama accompanied by Ugaas Abdillaahi Ugaas Noor, Ugaas Farah Dheere and others. Also, other officials of the state are part of the delegation.

    The delegation of Khaatumo has met with the President of Somalia H.E. Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and other high ranking officials in the TFG. The two sides have discussed broad range of issues of interest, the Somali Unity, and the role of Khaatumo State of Somalia as a federal state within a federal Somalia. Both parties had positive dialogue and were in full agreement on all the topics discussed.

    Below video and pictures regarding the visit of Khaatumo delegation to Mogadishu

    http://horufadhi.com/2012/02/20/kulan-dhexmaray-madaxweynaha-soomaaliya-shariif-sh-axmed-iyo-wufuudii-khaatumo-statesawiro/

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge7EDWseI5U&feature=youtu.be

  16. We rarely agree with the President of Puntland, Abdirahman Faroole, but no doubt he hit the nail on the head when he characterized the political operatives who hijacked the Taleeh meeting and declared Khaatumo xumo as a bunch of political failures who were trying to use that meeting as a way to resurrect their political careers. Some might argue that this is an unfair characterization of a whole group of people, and they have every right to debate the issue. But what can hardly be debated is the characterization of the leader of the Khatumo xumo group, Ali Khalif Galaydh, as an emblem of failure in Somali politics. For anyone who is familiar with Somali politics, this statement is so self-evident it does not need further elaboration. But for the sake of those who may have any doubt, let us just say that Ali Khalif Galaydh had served on two different administrations. The first one was when he was a minister in Muhammad Siyad Barre’s dictatorship. His association with that regime came to a sensational end when, as many Somalis will tell you, he fled on a plane full of looted money. His second stint was when he became prime minister in Abdiqasim Salad Hasan’s Transitional National Government (TNG). Like the previous episode, his premiership collapsed with charges of embezzlement leveled against him by President Abdiqasim Salad Hasan. His checkered past had even spurred Professor Abdi Samatar to write a letter to the administration of the University of Minnesota alerting them to Galaydh’s corruption and asking them not to hire him. He had two opportunities and both them ended in political failure and charges of embezzlement. This is his record in internal Somali politics.
    His record in foreign affairs is no better. What particularly stood out when he was prime minister of the TNG, was how he mismanaged relations with Ethiopia. He ritually blamed Ethiopia for most of Somalia’s ills, including the dysfunction of his government. As he put it, “Soon after the completion of the Arte conference we heard of Ethiopian concerns about the presence of Islamic fundamentalists who posed a security threat to Ethiopia.”
    Mr Galaydh particularly relished shaming Ethiopia in the UN Security Council where in January 11, 2001, he made these charges against Ethiopia:
    “The TNG believes firmly that it has addressed the stated Ethiopian concerns adequately. Unfortunately our concerns which are becoming more and more serious are not being acknowledged let alone addressed. The facts on the ground are the following:
    Ethiopia has been occupying towns in the Gedo Region – Bulo Hawo, Dolo and Lugh – since 1996. The presence of Ethiopian forces has been increasing more recently and the civilian population is being subjected to systematic intimidation and detention. Fourteen prominent local personalities were the latest to be detained in the last few days;
    Contrary to Security Council resolutions Ethiopia is giving arms, ammunitions, and supplies to groups opposed to the TNG, including a group based in Mogadishu;
    Ethiopia is aggressively recruiting, training and arming militias in Gedo, Middle Juba, Lower Juba, Bay, Bakool and Hiran.”
    One of the ironies in Ali Khalif Galaydh’s political career is that he also used to accuse Ethiopia of dividing Somalia into what he derisively would refer to as Bantustans or lands, like Somaliland, Puntland, Hiiraanland, and Juba land. In that same speech at the UN Security Council, he even opposed attempts by Rahanwein leaders to set up their own administration, and argued, “In pursuing its ‘Building Blocs’ policy, Ethiopia is orchestrating from Godey the creation of yet another administrative entity – the so-called South West State.”
    The same Ali Khalif is now saying he wants to set up an administration for his clan and is begging Ethiopia for safe passage. If that is not the epitome of political failure, we don’t know what is.
    http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2012/525/2.shtml
    http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2012/525/2.shtml

  17. The first group of Somaliland delegates to the London conference left this week for Ethiopia. The delegation was led by Somaliland Minister of Information, Mr Ahmed Abdi Habsade(From SOOL), and included Somaliland elder statesman Haji Abdikarim Hussein, former Vice President Ahmed Yusuf Yasin, the Chairman of Kulmiye Party Muse Bihi, the Chairman of UCID Eng. Faysal Ali Warabe and other dignitaries.
    Speaking to the press before they crossed the border to Ethiopia, Mr Habsade said that Somaliland was invited to help in solving the problems of the neighboring country of Somalia and that they are stopping in Ethiopia to get the visas for London. He also added that the rest of the delegation will come with President Ahmed Sillanyo before Feb.23.
    http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2012/525/6.shtml

  18. Dear Ambassador,

    The following link will take you back to the Khaatumo 2 grand conference that was held at Taleex from end of December 2011 – to January 2012.

    The video shows the Khaatumo youth dispalying 100 beautiful Somali proverbs (traditional wise sayings) in which the youth of Khaatumo passed to the conference attendees how they are committed to establish their own reginal administration. This video is widely circulated, liked, and appreciated because of the rich content of Somali wisdom.

    This happened under the breath-taking Bardaha Khaatumo Conference in taleeH

    http://allssc.com/?p=22929

  19. H. Excellency Presiden Ahmed Elmi Osman (Crash) is touring the Khaatumo State of Somalia territories (Sool, Sanaag, and cayn). He has already visited Buuhoodle, Boocame, Tukaraq, Taleex, sarmaanyo, Dogoble, and Dhaban. The president and his delegation including two prominent Garaads (tradidional leaders namely Garaad Suleiman Garaad Mohamed and Garaad Jama Garaad Ismail Duale), ministers and other high officials of Khaatumo government are currently in Huddun district. Everywhere they visited, the president and his delegation, are well received.

    The purpose of the president’s visit is to meet with the Khaatumo population in all areas and assess their needs, discuss possible ways to advance their livelihoods on all aspects. On the other hand, the president affirmed that the Khaatumo population’s resolve to liberate the few pockets in the state in which the Isaaqi clan remains.will be fulfilled by the government of Khaatumo. saying “the khaatumo government’s mandate toward the liberation of the few areas under the occupation of the Isaaqi clan and to drive back the aggressors who are pushing to expand their aggression is the priority of this government to deal with”.

    The delegation will continue the tour to many other areas in the Khaatumo State of Somalia.

    Click the following 2 links to see pictures of the president’s tour:

    http://www.realtaleex.com/2012/02/20/daawo-sawiradii-ugu-danbeeyey-ee-booqashadda-iyo-indho-indhaynta-deeganadda-nugaasha-iyo-madaxda-maamulka-khaatumo-state-of-somalia/

    http://allssc.com/?p=22900

  20. The World Must Recognize Somaliland On Its Historical Borders

    -The Arab World with the leadership of Saudi Arabia must show the courage of recognizing Somaliland Republic on the basis of its own historical, colonial borders as the diplomatic and international recognition of every Arab country is based on its own historical, colonial borders so the West will follow to recognize Somaliland too.

    The United Nations, African Union, African States, or the Arab World did not draw or make the current borders of African States and Arab World. All the borders of Arab World and African independent states had been drawn by the colonial powers of Europe. The independence, statehood, and diplomatic recognition of each Arab and African State as well as each Asian or South American country today are based on its own colonial demarcations or borders.

    Similarly, the statehood, independence, and the expected diplomatic recognition of Somaliland Republic are based on its own colonial borders drawn during British Somaliland Protectorate era.

    The borders of Somalia, Somaliland, and Djibouti have the same international status and legitimacy because they were all drawn by European Colonial powers. Anyone who opposes the legitimacy of Somaliland borders, its statehood, its independence, and its diplomatic recognition is challenging the borders and sovereignty of all Africans, Arab World, Asian, and South American independent states whose borders rose from their colonial borders or demarcations.

    Some people confuse Somaliland Republic with Puntland Region of Somalia for either not knowing the history of Somalis or for irrational political reasons. Puntland is an integral, inseparable part of Somalia because it is located within Somalia historical borders with which Somalia achieved independence on July 1st, 1960 from Italy while Somaliland Republic emerged from British Somaliland Protectorate and achieved separately its independence from Britain on June 26, 1960. Somaliland Republic has undeniable rights to claim independence, statehood, and recognition based on its own unique borders while Puntland can not have such rights because it is part of Somalia and shares borders and nationhood with it.

    Somaliland and Somalia are not the first two countries in this world whose union ceased to exist. The Soviet Union that had 15 Socialist Republics created by the Bolshevik Revolution led by Lenin in 1917 broke up after social upheavals and political discontent ended its existence peacefully in 1989 with new countries emerging from it such as Georgia, Ukraine, Armenia, Uzbekistan, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia etc. They are all recognized by the UN and international community on the basis of their original borders existing before the union. The federation of former Republic of Yugoslavia that had 8 countries broke up too after bloody civil wars between 1991-1995 and new countries such as Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, Slovenia, Kosovo etc emerged from its ashes. All are recognized diplomatically too for their original borders existing before the federation.

    Some Somalis believe that Somaliland can not withdraw from the union with Somalia claiming that Somalis share language, religion, color, and culture. If this claim were true for achieving union, the Arab World which has nearly 17 independent countries such as Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunis ia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen, and Sudan and that also share language, religion, culture, and color would not have separate independent sates. They do not have any federal or union for disagreeing to share one. Only justice and fair power-sharing are the most important factors for a union to survive and that is what Somalia failed to understand in the years of the union.

    Independent Republic of Somaliland was the first to pioneer the unification between Somaliland and Somalia on July 1, 1960 in quest for Greater Somalia in the Horn of Africa. The union was doomed after Somalia hijacked the governments for the thirty years of its existence (1960-1990) and then committed atrocities against Somaliland people when they rebelled against injustices and humiliation perpetrated against them.

    The idea of a Greater Somalia emerged in the middle of the Second World War [1939-1945] and the main objective was to liberate the five Somali Territories and bring them together under the same banner and government in the Horn of Africa. That idea of â Greater Somalia (Somaliweyn) is as elusive as a Greater Arabiâ today and no one knows when it will come true.

    The Somaliland Congress held in Burao on May 18, 1991 unanimously proclaimed the withdrawal of Somaliland from the union with Somalia and reclaimed its independence of June 26, 1960 naming itself Somaliland Republic. The referendum held in Somaliland on May 31st, 2001 reaffirmed Somaliland independence from Somalia with 97% in favor of Somaliland sovereignty. Somaliland, as any African state, has the right to be diplomatically recognized by the United Nations and international community for its own unique borders that rose from British Somaliland Protectorate borders.

    Somaliland Republic will only discuss future relations with a government of Somalia (Former Italian Territory) which is democratically elected and which represents and controls the entire people and territory of Somalia. Somaliland will not meet with a government or parliament that includes individuals claiming to represent Somaliland. Any meeting or discussions with Somalia that does not fulfill these two conditions would violate the basics of Somaliland`s sovereignty.

    The Arab World and the African Union must lead the diplomatic recognition of Somaliland for sharing same historical borders that all rose from colonial borders. It would be unfair to deny Somaliland of diplomatic recognition based on its own historical, colonial borders while the nationhood and statehood of their countries are based too on their own historical, colonial borders.
    Ibrahim Hassan Gagale
    http://waayeelnews.blogspot.com/2012/02/world-must-recognize-somaliland-on-its.html

  21. Your Excellent Matt Baugh

    We as Somaliland are tired of been linked with the famine and the war in Somalia. We want our country to be recognized and then we hope our leaders will contribute to a better East Africa.

    Somaliland has had development – peace – democracy and investment in the telecommunication industry and they recently opened Coca Cola plant outside Hargeisa. We in east Somaliland are part of Somaliland and we have better similarity -culture and accident with the rest of Somaliland.
    Puntland administration consists of 98% Ma jeer ten (JEER people) elders and they always oppose our unity – leaders and administrations such as SSC. That is the reason 99% voted to be part of Somaliland and we have high ministry post in the government compare to Puntland where none from East Somaliland has high post.

    We as Somaliland hope this conference will help our somalis fellows in south Somalia to bring peace – progressive administration and unity among them. They have shown that they can bring peace to there territory under Islamic Courts Union year 2006 unfourthly Puntland former President Abdullahi Yusuf attack them and convince Ethiopian soldiers to hold him in power. The result of their aggression became famine – Somali people and youth join Alshabab from all around the world to fight against the occupation in their territory.

    International community should recognize Somaliland so we can send troops if necessary and contribute in positive why how to come bring democracy and fight against Alshabab. The only solution for Somalia particularly south is those who lives they come tighter as they did 2006 by different clans courts.

    Reference
    http://www.businessweek.com/news/2011-05-31/coca-cola-invests-10-million-in-somaliland-bottling-plant.html Coca Cola plant

    Consequence if Somaliland was like Somalia Experts viewpoint.
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_W2P2CP_RM

  22. Hi, Matt as we all know the Garwoo 2 was concluded on Sunday I.e Somalia will be federal states. The self-declared Somaliland is literally silencing the freedom to texpress your own desire and the aspirations of the people. There are now 3 states that want to remain Republic of Somalia & they are, Maakhir, khaatomo & Awdal. These brothers of ours are repea ng the failure of old Regime

  23. The House of Commons Debate
    on Somalia
    By Mohamed F. Yabarag
    Feb. 18, 2012

    On the 9th February the British parliamentarians thronged in the famous Palace of Westminster, the home of British legislatives, to debate Somalia’s troubled affairs two weeks before the start of the upcoming international conference on Somalia scheduled to take place on the 23rdof February, which will be chaired by prime minister David Cameron and expected to be attended by more than 40 world leaders consisting of presidents, prime ministers, head of states, the UN, civil societies and a significant number of regional and international organizations. The agenda of the meeting circulated earlier by the Home Office consists of seven points of which piracy off the Somali coast and the potential terrorism threat to the UK interests are one the most significant ones as far as the host country is concerned. The UK (England and Wales in particular) is home to in excess of half a million strong Somali community, making it one of the largest concentrations of Somali Diaspora anywhere in the world. With the potential threat posed by the UK citizens of Somali extraction in the Al Shabaab-run camps in Somalia coupled with the continuing piracy threat off the Somali coast which had economically impacted on the maritime business, the UK government has every right to worry about Somalia and the continuing threat it poses.

    After more than fourteen failed attempts to resuscitate the Somali state mostly by IGAD members states, the United Kingdom, the former colony of the northern regions of Somalia, had stepped in to have a ago at one last attempt to save Somalia from being destined into the history dustbin and complete oblivion. Most Somalis in and outside the country have welcomed the brave and valiant attempt by David Cameron to tackle the perennial Somali problem that refused to go away for well over two agonizing decades . Somalia has suffered immensely more than any other country in the world from all kind of things, including but not limited to failed state, anarchy, terrorism, invasion by its erstwhile enemies, piracy in the high seas, warlord-ism, displacement, famine and starvation that killed more than a million people and made homeless almost a quarter of the entire Somali population. Somali refugees are currently spread all over the world, including more than half a million in the inhospitable camps in Kenya, where they face harassment, torture and rape on a daily basis.

    The undesirable intervention of Alun Michael (MP, south Cardiff and Penarth)

    The debate on Somalia started with a long and detailed report delivered by the right honorable secretary of state, William Hague, emphasizing the importance of establishing a country that is at ease with itself, protects its citizens from Al shabaab hegemony, combats piracy and finds a place for every disgruntled regional administration (including Somaliland) in an all-inclusive democratic system that accommodates everyone in Somalia.

    Then all of sudden, Alun Michael, the MP from Cardiff south Cardiff and Penarth whose constituency has a sizable number of Somalis mainly from northern Somalia, intervened the debate with his undiminished support for the separatists in “Somaliland”. What promised to be an interesting discussion on Somalia was almost unfortunately hijacked by one Alun Michael and turned it into a debate about “Somaliland” and how its recognition was well overdue.

    For most Somalis, who witnessed their country to be debated for the first time in the UK parliament, it was depressing to see such a scene in the mother of all parliaments, especially when they thought their enemies are dwindling. Alun Michael and his fellow MP, Tony Baldry, can move mountains to dismember Somalia into clan-based regional administrations so that their beloved “Somaliland” will benefit from such a move. Alun Michael, in particular, has been known to support the secessionist project for more than twenty years and that fact that he achieved nothing for his endeavor illustrates that the international community has no stomach for recognizing the secessionist enclave. His current raving and ranting in Westminster will change nothing as far as the Somali unity is concerned. The honorable MP should know better than anyone else that the world is not daft enough to recognize “Somaliland” on such flimsy basis. The following are one of the few facts that perhaps Alun Michael and Tony Baldry should know before they waste their valuable time and that of their fellow parliamentarians on the secessionist project:

    – The British Somaliland ceased on the 26th June, 1960 and joined their fellow Italian Somaliland on the first of July, 1960 to form a state called Republic of Somalia.

    – On July 20, 1961 and through a popular referendum, the people of Somalia ratified a new constitution which was first drafted in 1960. Any future alteration on the territorial integrity of Somalia can only be changed through a popular referendum by all Somalis and not by the people in northern Somalia alone.

    – The former British Somaliland is home to five major clans and other numerically smaller ones: Dhubahante and Warsengeli on the east, Gadaboursi and Issa on the west and Isaaq in the middle. Of all these clans, only hardliners among the Isaaq Clan are pushing for a complete separation from motherland Somalia at the expense of other clans. The blind support of Alun Michael for secession is nothing short of denial of the rights of all the aforementioned clans who want to remain with their fellow Somalis in Somalia.

    – Somalis are the most homogenous people in Africa i.e. have same culture, language, religion and even same look that any attempt for their division into clan-based administrations will never work.

    Following Alun Michael’s long speech in support of the secession project, this is what the right honorable secretary of state, William Hague, had to say about Somaliland: “We give it [Somaliland] a lot of assistance in many ways and welcome the fact that it has become a more stable area within Somalia, and we will welcome its participation at the London conference. The emphasis here is “we give it a lot of assistance ………….within Somalia”. This should have been a forewarning and smack on the face of Alun Michael that the UK government is not going to buy this nonsensical thing called “Somaliland”. Alun Michael is elected from Wales, a country that is part and parcel of the United Kingdom despite its distinctive language and culture, and yet he is calling for the dismemberment of a country and people that has no such distinction. How ironic is this!

    If that was not enough, this is what MP Richard Ottaway had to say about Alun Michael’s relentless push for “Somaliland” secession in the debate: “I have to confess that I have an open mind on that question [separation of Somaliland], but I find it slightly ironic that a Welsh MP who believes in the United Kingdom should be calling for such a separation in Somalia”. This statement was an ultimate blow to the separatists and their ilk and music to the ears of those who want to see Somalia back where it belongs – in the international community. Moreover, the foreign mercenaries recruited by the secessionists throughout the last twenty years they seeking recognition (wild goose) had now deserted this lost cause. May be Alun Michael and Tony Baldry are the last Johnny foreigners remaining on this sinking ship of Somaliland. It is good for them to jump the ship before it is too late.

    In conclusion, every sane person in northern Somalia knows that the secession project is dead in the water and that it is high time to give it a decent burial. Furthermore, the international community which abandoned Somalia many years ago is now returning back to give Somalia another bite of the cherry. With the formation of Khaatumo state of Somalia and the earlier declaration of Awdal State, Somaliland’s faintest chance of international recognition is now coming to a grinding halt – naught. With war raging in eastern parts of the enclave between Khaatumo state of Somalia and the secessionists in Hargeisa, the much-vaunted peace that was once the hallmark of “Somaliland” is now a distant memory. The fact that Somalia, the mother country, is on the mend and its people in and outside the country are sensing for the first time that their country is back on track has also dealt a mortal blow to the secessionists in Hargeisa and elsewhere in the enclave. It is time Alun Michael and his fellow MP, Tony Baldry, should abandon their futile search for Somali balkanization and side with the majority of peace-seeking Somalis.

    Mohamed F Yabarag
    WardheerNews Contributor
    E-Mail: Myabarag@yahoo.co.uk

    http://wardheernews.com/Articles_12/Feb/Yabarag/18_The_House_of_Commons_Debate_on_Somalia.html

  24. Anyone or group like NOT-MORE-THAN-WEBSITE (THE VIRTUAL STATES) are engineered by the spoilers of any edeavors to reach long lasting peace and stability in the region. As the world’s leading nations who have the means to study are aware of, they are mostly group of diaspora Somalis with some opportunists from regions they don’t represent. They stablished themselves in the wake of the America’s Dual Track Policy on Somalia that was intended to help the regions led by some politicians who indured the difficulties and the challenges of the lowless Somalia. Those like the leaders of Galmudug who managed to create pockets of stable Somalia that is free from the Terror of Alshabab, pirates and warlordism. They intend to hijack the the irrefutable concept of Somaliland’s people.
    Republic of Somaliland is always calling for peaceful way of settling disputes and conflicts to all of its opponents. Hate and violence is no place in its society. Somaliland as, its current ruling party proved by comming to London Conference, willing to talk to any party that may take the peaceful venue of settling desputes. It will not compromise its rightful quest for statehood and shall not accept its people’s right to self-determination. History tells us that the armed rebellion of the majority of Somaliland population against the despotic dictator rule and the destructive bombardment of its major cities did not prevent from their demand for becoming free but only weakened the then mighty Somali Republic. It moved the whole army and resources to to Somaliland in order to crush SNM. That did not happen and resulted Somalia’s collapse was hurried by unorganized militia of its own. Lack of ambitious plan and idiological purpose further fueled wars between competing tribalistic and corrupted leaders of Somalia as Somaliland came up with conciliatory mechanism that distinguished itself form Somalia. This is the model that Britain intends to employ with Somaliland’s knowledge and help at thier disposal. Given the comments of its people and according to how they sound, it feels like they are not commenting to help heal their ailing nation. They are choosing to become Somaliland’s whistle-blowing unfairly and unrationally.

    1. Those who are talking about somaliland please do not spoil this meeting , it is only for somalia and somalia alone … if you want to be a different country come up with another name like isaaqland , if you no longer want to be apart of somalia or the somali people.
      If you want independence it is you at lose , because I feel there is hope for somalia and we will raise , then when we raise if an enemy attacks isaaqland , I’m sorry we wont help, you betrayed us and you will have nothing what so ever to do with the rest of somalia .

      For your information Siad Barre was not a dictator he was a hero and a ruler of Somalia when it was peaceful . It is people like you with a clan-based psyche that let Somalia down , this is backwardness , change your oppinions because they seem somewhat obscured and flawed . so amend your words , you can not insult a former leader or islamically/morally ever insult a dead person , are you not human ? .
      In my eyes and in many other people’s eyes there will be no-one as good as Siad Barre .

      Thank you and good luck with your mission to create isaaqland . 😀

  25. I feel that it is very important to have unity within the somali people , if there is no unity there will be no space for peace or freedom . Those who say that somalia should be divided are the problem , and with that problem standing there will be no room for success , the only thing that will stem from disunity is security risks to somalia and the rest of the world, there will be rage therefore violence and the worsening of our homeland . In saying all this I would urge the somali community whereever they are to stop with this bitterness and narrow minded ideaology of clan based segregation , it will firstly lead to death and the oppurtuniy for there to be foriegn intervention ,which would include Kenya and Ethiopia’s agenda to invade not only southern somalia but East , and so called somaliland the north of somalia , West Somalia is already invaded we need to focus on reliberating that part from invasion and opression. This is what is wrong with us somalis ,we want to kill ourselves, when will there ever be unity or peace if we are the obstacles to all the good oppurtunities of a brighter and optimstic future ? Grow up somalis !,dividing will only create a fall , whilst uniting will create a raise. Ask yourselves do you really want no country and to end up as indigenous people ? or would you rather come together and forget about any past misunderstandings. Most of so-called ‘somaliland’s’ views about independence are flawed .Blaming our only and last president(Siade Barre ) on crimes which he has not done will not give you independence or democracy . So stop blaming a hero on felony , when he and the presidents before him (May Allah have mercy on their souls ) were the only ones that kept our country stable and peaceful. Talk about the main issues of Somalia like illegal dumping in our sea and the disunity of the people , how we will have solutions to tackle and overcome these problems facing us. Or if you want to be childish you can start talking about other things such as dividing yourselfs into mini islands , and clans into subclans , and wanting to kill one another with no mercy.

    p.s. there will never be peace if we are all going to be childish

    Thank you if you have heeded and read clearly my words and soon will implement it , if you dont then its you and your country at lose . Qoute ” ask not what your country can do for you , ask what can you do for your country” The amazing J.F Kenedy

  26. The root causes and effects of the problems in the country.

    Justice
    • Cadaalad, waxeey dhashaa is-aamin, kalsooni, iyo tanaasul.
    • Cadaalad-daro waxeey dhashaa dagaal, khiyaano, is-aaminid la’aan joogta ah.

    Poverty
    • Gaajo, waxeey dhashaa damac-badi, wax-walba doon, danbiilenimo iyo daroogo cun.
    • Dharag, waxeey dhashaa horumar, si fiican u fakar, naxariis iyo gar-gaarid inta kaa liidata.

    Ignorance
    • Jahli, waxuu dhalaa kibir, isir-faquuq, qabiil ku faan iyo qabweyni.
    • Aqoon, waxeey dhashaa daganaan, dulqaad, iyo horumar.

    Religions
    • Wahaabisim, waxuu dhalaa Itixaad, Ictisaam, Salafi, Ikhwaan-Muslimiin, Biddca, Al-shabaab aduunka hala dhibaateeyo waxaan qadiyaadeena aaminsaneeyn iyo kuwa kale oo imaan doona oo ka sii daran.
    • Sufisim, waxuu dhalaa u adeega bulshada, quraan dhigis xirsi-gooyn, duco, Ahlu-suna, Qadiriya, Axmadiya, Rufaciya, Saalixiya iyo kuwa kale oo fiican oo dalka iyo dadka wax u dhibeeyn aduunka kalana hala dhibaateeyo aan aaminsaneeyn.

    Hadba xalka hala kala doorto aduunka sidaas ha u barto dhibaatada soomaaliya.

    F.G. ah
    Wadamada ka cabanaya dhalinyarada aadeeysa wadamadaas eey ka jiraan dhibaataadu, kaliyah waxaad uga hortagi kartaan in dalalkooda eey ka mamnuucaan Wahaabisimka iyaadoo aan diin qofeed lagu xad-gudbeeyn laakiin kuwani diin sax ah maahan
    Sufisimka dhiiri galiya.
    Mahadsanidiin

  27. Mr. Ambassador,

    Here is another report on Somaliland one clan interior minister stirring religious war against Khaatumo State of Somalia.

    Somaliland Uses Religion to Beat War Drums

    Armed encounters in Sool-joogto pasture lands, about 30KM from Buuhoodle, between forces loyal to Somaliland administration..

    and unionist forces defending Buuhoodle, indicate that president Ahmed Mohamed Silaanyo of Somaliland , has ignored calls to refrain from rekindling clan warfare in Northern Somalia that has enjoyed peace for more than 15 years.

    In a meeting attended by Somaliland Minister for Interior, Mohamed Nuur Araale, clan elders in Hargeisa liken the Somaliland cause to prophet Mohamed’s mission to spread Islam . “ Prophet Mohamed was told ‘ Treat them well if they mistreat you because prophet was on the right path.’ “ said one elder. After few seconds, the same elder, exhorts his clansmen: “ To every man I say, bring men a from your clan and contribute to the war in financial terms, no more talk,” . Then people in the room chant “ Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar “ God is Great, God is Great.”

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFI8Y_5Zyn4&feature=youtu.be

    The minister did not resort to religiously threatening rhetoric but he did not remind his clansmen of the futility of the language they used; he made use of the word sovereignty, ( Qarannimo) to justify Somaliland administration’s attempts to attack Buuhoodle and other towns populated by unionists. Sovereignty in Somalia is invoked in relation to the internationally recognised Transitional Federal Government of Somalia based in Mogadishu. Why do Somaliland traditional and political leaders fuse the language of extremists with the language of demagogues? Somaliland’s ruling clique have turned their back on reconciliation and taken a leaf from extremist’s book.

    Former Somaliland president Dahir Riyale , in an interview with VOA Somali Service denounced president’ Ahmed Silaanyo’s decision to wage war on Buuhoodle. “ There is no need for war” Riyale said. (http://www.voanews.com/somali/news/Madaxweyne-Rayaale-Kaahin-oo-u-Waramay-VOA-139429603.html )

    Through aid to Somalia Republic Britain funded at least two peace-related projects – ( Africa Conflict Prevention Pool: Conflict Management and PEACEBUILDING in SOOL and SANAAG Regions which was completed on 31/03/2011- and Africa Conflict Prevention Pool – Support to Police Accountability in Somaliland which was completed on 31/03/2011. Both projects were administered in Hargeisa, the administrative capital of Somaliland administration where clan elders are now calling ethnic-cleansing.

    The silence of the Somalia’ Transitional Federal Government on Somaliland’s violent motives military was denounced by Aqil Mohamud Omar Omay in Buhoodle who called for the international community to intervene in the conflict in northern Somalia “We have tried to use traditional means of reconciliation but that has not worked . We want a third party,” Aqil Mohamud Omar told media recently. (http://youtu.be/UxlPR0kgzaM ), Although Aqil Amay’s people are under constant threat of ethnic-cleaning justified on the basis of religion and questionable sovereignty, he did not allow hostilities to fog his vision.

    Somaliland administration has damaged communal trust in several ways: by justifying secession on the basis of the a border ex-British Somaliland had with Italian Somaliland ( both provinces united to form the Somali Republic in 1960), by promoting clan warfare and by claiming sovereignty although Somaliland is regarded internationally as a part of Somalia. The international community and United Nations Political Office for Somalia ought to address the conflict in northern Somalia and a new trend: mobilising a clan through religion to attack another clan.

    Liban Ahmad

    libahm@gmail.com

    http://lasanod.com/details.php?num=6976

  28. The Somaliland Mission and the Somaliland Communities in the USA announces the 2012 Somaliland Conference in the Metro-Washington DC area on May 18th-19th. The 2012 Somaliland Conference will bring together attendees from Somaliland including all branches of Somaliland government, members from US Government, the leaders of the all Somaliland Political Parties including new political organizations, Election commission, Somaliland business community. World Bank, National Endowment for Democracy, International Republican Institute, Council on Foreign Relations, National Democratic Institute, Freedom House, US Universities, and the Somaliland communities in the United States and Canada. The estimated conference attendees are up to nine hundred people.

    This Conference will highlight the successful 2010 elections in Somaliland and the remarkable political stability achieved in the country, the growing economy, and the many challenges facing Somaliland today. The Conference will also focus on how the Somaliland Diaspora in the USA and Canada can reach out to their representatives and ask them to support the democracy and peace in Somaliland.

    On Friday and Saturday nights, the May 18th and May 19th at 8:00 PM, participants will be treated to a night of live music and folklore dance, and other cultural festivities. The details about the 2012 Somaliland Conference are available at this web site: http://www.somalilandconference.com

  29. Jealousy,hatred and lies are what made you cry and actually you will be suffering as long as you are doing it in this way.الحسد والحقد والكذب

  30. Dear Ambassador,

    The Khaatumo State of Somalia government and its population are asking Great Britain the following two questions:

    1. Why Britain is financially, politically, and materially helping the secessionist one clan enclave of Somaliland when that illegal entity of one clan is relentlessly engaged in attacking, massacring innocent people, displacing people, and violating the human right’s of the Khaatumo State of Somalia population?

    It’s widely believed that ir’s Britain’s and other donor’s funds that enable the Isaaq clan to attack other clans and commit human rights violations with total impunity. The world is asking how a single clan (a minority in Somalia) is allowed and assisted to violate the international law. We know that recognized countries are not allowed to commit such crimes. The situation in north of Somalia is that one clan (ISAAQ CLAN) is being supported to arm itself and launch attacks on neighboring tribes while an embargo of arms is on the legitimate TFG of Somalia!!!

    2. Why Mr. Siilaanyo who is a known warlord and war criminal is invited to the London Conference while the appropriate action against him would have been a warrant issued for his arrest by the International Criminal Court of Hague?

    Siilaanyo is long time leader of the terrorist SNM who committed the massacre of thousands of innocent Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn population in the 1980s to early 1990s. And most recently as he is the Somaliland clan administration committed massacres against the same population of Sool, Sanaag, and cayn, massacres he ordered to be carried out at Kalshaale near Buuhoodle and Erigavo in 2011, and again in Buuhoodle in 2012 that is still happening. He is also responsible for the daily human rights violations against the population of Las-Anod (Sool region) who are under a permanent killing, torture, jailing, and displacement.

    In addition, the Somaliland one clan entity and its leader Siilaanyo are the engine that drives the terrorist group of AL Shabaab. The truth that Somaliland is behind the AL Shabaab was long known to Somalis and only recently (in this month of February) was revealed who was responsible for establishing the AL Shabaab terrorist group and the origin of the funds that was used create Al Shabaab in the first place. The current TFG president Sheikh Shariif Sheikh Ahmed (a credible source who had the inside information) was quoted as saying ” …the seed money that was used to create Al Shabaab was brought from Hargeysa and by Hargeysa business men….at the time, Sheekh Shariif says, he was the chair of the Islamic Court Union that ruled Mogadishu briefly, and these business men from Hargeysa came with the money to initiate cooperation between Somaliland and the Islamic Courts of Mogadishu to fight Ethiopian forces….”.

    It is not surprising that later the Al Shabaab wing rebelled on the Islamic Courts and their senior leaders such as Sheikh Shariif himself. Consequently, the Al Shabaab went on their own way and began to implement the agenda of their financiers in Hargeysa – the Somaliland administration. The businessmen from Hargeysa were used for cover up only. And the AL Shabaab leadership was always an Isaaq clan administration representative, even at the time of the killed Adan Hashi Ayrow, the Somaliland administration was handling AL Shabaab behind the scene. All the upper echelon of AL Shabaab are from the one clan secessionist enclave of Somaliland, for example, Ahmed Abdi Godane the AL Shabaab current leader who only this month declared that AL Shabaab has officially joined the Al Qaeda. Others from the Isaaq secessionist clan who are senior members of AL Shabaab includu Ibrahim Al Afghani.

    Whatever lies and misleading information the one clan enclave continue to feed Great Britain and the International Community, the truth of the matter is that they are the terrorists who fund and equip the AL Shabaab. Any time the Al Shabaab sustains a set back, it’s the Somaliland secessionist administration and its supporters who get nervous, disappointed, and feels defeat. This is not a secret among Somalis.

    Therefore, the Khaatumo State of Somalia has resolved to eliminate the AL Shabaab and the secessionist one clan enclave of Somaliland (because the two are one and the same, interchangeable, and two faces of one coin) from the Khaatumo State of Somalia territories, and with the cooperation of all other stakeholders help eradicate them altogether from Somalia. Afterwards the world will be a better off and and a better place to live.

    Already Khaatumo State of Somalia has achieved a lot toward its goal and objectives. There are few pockets in Khaatumo State of Somalia in which the aggressor Isaaq clan militia (AL Shabaab) remains. The work is under way to drive out the AL SHabaab (Isaaqi Somaliland milita) back to their tribal territories.

    Khaatumo State of Somalia government and its population are doing their part, it’s the International Community missing in this endeavor and is dis-informed about the truth and realities.

  31. The ambasador and his government are trying to create stabililty in the troubled areas, the terrorist and pirate invested failed state of Somalia(The ex-Italian colony and prevention of potential future conflict in the stable areas(the former British Protectorate of Somaliland). There is no informations and news needed here.

  32. Atleast British governmet knows that Somaliland has responsible government that is mandated by ballot not by bullet like most of Somalia and is full control of the well being and stability of its citizens to which it delivers the services and even contributed to the humanitarian relief to recent famine in Somalia. Somalia doesn’t know what it wants and the world is in search who will best represent to get out of this situation of being the failed state! Somaliland knows what it wants and why they are comming to london. Matt Bough did not ask these people about how best Somaliland could be devided or destroyed. He expecting your best thinking of whow to better Somalia. Somalilanders will voice their honest opinion of how the best solution forward. The world knows what is happening in everywhere in Somalia and Somaliland as well as the difference between the two. They are looking for Solution.

  33. Below is a forwarded article that reveals who was responsible for establishing the AL Shabaab terrorist group and the origin of the funds that was used create Al Shabaab in the first place. The article is quoting the current TFG president Sheikh Shariif Sheikh Ahmed as saying ” …the seed money that was used to create Al Shabaab was brought from Hargeysa and by Hargeysa business men….at the time, Sheekh Shariif says, he was the chair of the Islamic Court Union that ruled Mogadishu briefly, and these business men from Hargeysa came with the money to initiate cooperation between Somaliland and the Islamic Courts of Mogadishu to fight Ethiopian forces….”.

    It is not surprising that later the Al Shabaab wing rebelled on the Islamic Courts and their senior leaders such as Sheikh Shariif himself. Consequently, the Al Shabaab went on their own way and began to implement the agenda of their financiers in Hargeysa – the Somaliland administration. The businessmen from Hargeysa were used for cover up only. And the AL Shabaab leadership was always an Isaaq clan administration representative, even at the time of the killed Adan Hashi Ayrow, the Somaliland administration was handling AL Shabaab behind the scene. All the upper echelon of AL Shabaab are from the one clan secessionist enclave of Somaliland, for example, Ahmed Abdi Godane the AL Shabaab current leader who only this month declared that AL Shabaab has officially joined the Al Qaeda. Others from the Isaaq secessionist clan who are senior members of AL Shabaab includu Ibrahim Al Afghani.

    Whatever lies and misleading information the one clan enclave continue to feed Great Britain and the International Community, the truth of the matter is that they are the terrorists who fund and equip the AL Shabaab. Any time the Al Shabaab sustains a set back, it’s the Somaliland secessionist administration and its supporters who get nervous, disappointed, and feels defeat. This is not a secret among Somalis.

    Therefore, the Khaatumo State of Somalia is eliminating the AL Shabaab and the secessionist one clan enclave of Somaliland (because the two are one and the same, interchangeable, and two faces of one coin).

    Read below the article:

    February 17, 2012

    Khaatumo: Some Advice For The Participants At The London Conference

    1. You can never suppress the wishes of people and the people of Khaatumo State of Somalia have already decided their own destiny. Throughout history from ancient Egypt through fascism, communism and any other ism, the wishes of the people have always prevailed. Khaatumo State of Somalia was the first independent “Somali” state on the 26th June, 1960. Before there was a “Somali Republic”, there was an independent and sovereign British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland. The British Somaliland was largely composed of the Darwiish people who are today strongly advocating for the unity and peace of all parts of “Somalia”.

    2. All conference participants must understand that peace can only came from within. Grass-root initiatives such as that implemented in the Sool Sanaag Cayn regions was a formula of dialogue, discussion and consensus. As shown, in the town of Taleex all respected elders, knowledgeable members and the regions activists gathered to announce an independent state called KHAATUMO STATE OF SOMALIA. The lack of support of the Sool Sanaag Cayn regions of Somalia will no longer be acceptable as the voices of the people of Khaatumo will no longer be silent.

    3. Khaatumo State of Somalia does not expect Britain to solve the problems in Somalia but hopes Britain will support grass-root initiatives and will work closely with the local government of Khaatumo State of Somalia in order to ensure prosperity and peace for all the regions of Sool Sanaag and Cayn (SSC). We welcome the hard work of the British officials towards Somalia over the years. The British Somali people and Somali people across the world welcome the concern of David Cameron and his government towards Somalia and hope within time the government of Britain will support the needs of the people Khaatumo.

    4. Remember, Khaatumo State of Somalia has a legitimate and democratically elected interim government, which has already opened dialogue with the Government of Djibouti, Central government of Somalia and Ethiopia, including the independent Somali regions of the Ethiopia government. Khaatumo State of Somalia is also supported by all key States of Somalia including the Awdal State of Somalia.

    5. In the past 21 years the regions of Sool Sanaag Cayn had very little attention and support from the international community due to the deliberate misrepresentation and suppression of the Somaliland single Clan affiliated administration, which sadly over the years has used the funds from the international community to build own clan villages and towns and have bought weapons to suppress all non-Isaaq towns and villages. Hence the occupation of the capital of Lascaanood (Lasanod) which to this day many of its residents have fled the town in 2007 and remain in the safety of Khaatumo State of Somalia villages and towns. This conference needs to ensure that the Somaliland Clan government answers for its crimes against humanity and the misuse of the international funds.

    6. Khaatumo State of Somalia welcomes all initiatives from the international community to unite and open constructive dialogue among all fractions of the Somali people and is pleased to see that the Somaliland single clan administration is coming to the table of the ‘Somalia Conference’ as their role within Northerns Somalia is an integral part of Somalia as a whole. The people in the Khaatumo State of Somalia have the same needs as those in all other regions of Somalia; they need peace, progress and democracy and are all hoping to play an important role within the Somali Central Government. This is exactly what the international community and all neighbouring countries Djibouti, Ethiopia and Kenya need in the Horn of Africa.

    7. We should welcome the support of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti, whether it is helping the Somali people in the Refugee camps or getting involved in the peace transition of Somalia. However, the Somali central government needs to be supported in order to take action against those in Hargeisa who are funding the Al-Shabab movement, only recently Sheikh Shariif stated that “Al-shabaab was initiated with funds from Hargeisa”.

    It is a known fact within the Somali community that funds for the Al-shabaab are transmitted from the Somali money transfer company called “Dahabshiil”, this is due to the clan-links of the head of the Al-shabaab and the owner of Dahabshiil. This close relationship between Al-shabaab and Dahabshiil is one that has been ignored by the international community over the years, however, it is hoped that all the countries concerned with the peace and stability of Somalia will pay more attention to this highlighted issue.

    8. Al-Shabab can only be engaged in talks when they refute terrorism and lay down their arms. With this regard, we believe that the international community need to strengthen capability and capacity of the Somali central government and support the AMISOM peace keepers to ensure the Somali people are able to help themselves to eradicate all radical extremism from Somalia.

    9. Khaatumo is a Somali word that translates “Good Ending”, the current interim administration of Khaatumo State of Somalia is a good example of a tolerant and inclusive state, which is fully supportive of the central government of Somalia and the efforts of the international community towards a better more stable region. Khaatumo State of Somalia welcomes the international community to support all efforts on the ground to renounce terrorism and piracy and hopes to work closely with both the central Somali government and the international community to realize such positive efforts.

    10. Finally, Somalis will always have social, cultural and economic ties, and grass-root initiatives which will have close political ties to the central government of Somalia. Khaatumo State of Somalia is one of those grass-root political initiatives which both the central government of Somalia and the international community needs to nurture and support fully in order to realize the pan-Somalia peace movement that the people of Somalia crave and need in this crucial time of change.

    Khaatumo is an important peace building bridge within Somalia, hence why people of all regions of Somalia are in full support of the decisions reached by the people of Khaatumo and their desire to involve in the central Somali government is one welcomed by the current interim administration. It is time for the international community to equally welcome the birth and progress of the Khaatumo State of Somalia.
    By: Idil Khaatumo

  34. February 17, 2012

    : Some Advice For The Participants At The London Conference

    1. You can never suppress the wishes of people and the people of Khaatumo State of Somalia have already decided their own destiny. Throughout history from ancient Egypt through fascism, communism and any other ism, the wishes of the people have always prevailed. Khaatumo State of Somalia was the first independent “Somali” state on the 26th June, 1960. Before there was a “Somali Republic”, there was an independent and sovereign British Somaliland and Italian Somaliland. The British Somaliland was largely composed of the Darwiish people who are today strongly advocating for the unity and peace of all parts of “Somalia”.

    2. All conference participants must understand that peace can only came from within. Grass-root initiatives such as that implemented in the Sool Sanaag Cayn regions was a formula of dialogue, discussion and consensus. As shown, in the town of Taleex all respected elders, knowledgeable members and the regions activists gathered to announce an independent state called KHAATUMO STATE OF SOMALIA. The lack of support of the Sool Sanaag Cayn regions of Somalia will no longer be acceptable as the voices of the people of Khaatumo will no longer be silent.

    3. Khaatumo State of Somalia does not expect Britain to solve the problems in Somalia but hopes Britain will support grass-root initiatives and will work closely with the local government of Khaatumo State of Somalia in order to ensure prosperity and peace for all the regions of Sool Sanaag and Cayn (SSC). We welcome the hard work of the British officials towards Somalia over the years. The British Somali people and Somali people across the world welcome the concern of David Cameron and his government towards Somalia and hope within time the government of Britain will support the needs of the people Khaatumo.

    4. Remember, Khaatumo State of Somalia has a legitimate and democratically elected interim government, which has already opened dialogue with the Government of Djibouti, Central government of Somalia and Ethiopia, including the independent Somali regions of the Ethiopia government. Khaatumo State of Somalia is also supported by all key States of Somalia including the Awdal State of Somalia.

    5. In the past 21 years the regions of Sool Sanaag Cayn had very little attention and support from the international community due to the deliberate misrepresentation and suppression of the Somaliland single Clan affiliated administration, which sadly over the years has used the funds from the international community to build own clan villages and towns and have bought weapons to suppress all non-Isaaq towns and villages. Hence the occupation of the capital of Lascaanood (Lasanod) which to this day many of its residents have fled the town in 2007 and remain in the safety of Khaatumo State of Somalia villages and towns. This conference needs to ensure that the Somaliland Clan government answers for its crimes against humanity and the misuse of the international funds.

    6. Khaatumo State of Somalia welcomes all initiatives from the international community to unite and open constructive dialogue among all fractions of the Somali people and is pleased to see that the Somaliland single clan administration is coming to the table of the ‘Somalia Conference’ as their role within Northerns Somalia is an integral part of Somalia as a whole. The people in the Khaatumo State of Somalia have the same needs as those in all other regions of Somalia; they need peace, progress and democracy and are all hoping to play an important role within the Somali Central Government. This is exactly what the international community and all neighbouring countries Djibouti, Ethiopia and Kenya need in the Horn of Africa.

    7. We should welcome the support of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti, whether it is helping the Somali people in the Refugee camps or getting involved in the peace transition of Somalia. However, the Somali central government needs to be supported in order to take action against those in Hargeisa who are funding the Al-Shabab movement, only recently Sheikh Shariif stated that “Al-shabaab was initiated with funds from Hargeisa”.

    It is a known fact within the Somali community that funds for the Al-shabaab are transmitted from the Somali money transfer company called “Dahabshiil”, this is due to the clan-links of the head of the Al-shabaab and the owner of Dahabshiil. This close relationship between Al-shabaab and Dahabshiil is one that has been ignored by the international community over the years, however, it is hoped that all the countries concerned with the peace and stability of Somalia will pay more attention to this highlighted issue.

    8. Al-Shabab can only be engaged in talks when they refute terrorism and lay down their arms. With this regard, we believe that the international community need to strengthen capability and capacity of the Somali central government and support the AMISOM peace keepers to ensure the Somali people are able to help themselves to eradicate all radical extremism from Somalia.

    9. Khaatumo is a Somali word that translates “Good Ending”, the current interim administration of Khaatumo State of Somalia is a good example of a tolerant and inclusive state, which is fully supportive of the central government of Somalia and the efforts of the international community towards a better more stable region. Khaatumo State of Somalia welcomes the international community to support all efforts on the ground to renounce terrorism and piracy and hopes to work closely with both the central Somali government and the international community to realize such positive efforts.

    10. Finally, Somalis will always have social, cultural and economic ties, and grass-root initiatives which will have close political ties to the central government of Somalia. Khaatumo State of Somalia is one of those grass-root political initiatives which both the central government of Somalia and the international community needs to nurture and support fully in order to realize the pan-Somalia peace movement that the people of Somalia crave and need in this crucial time of change.

    Khaatumo is an important peace building bridge within Somalia, hence why people of all regions of Somalia are in full support of the decisions reached by the people of Khaatumo and their desire to involve in the central Somali government is one welcomed by the current interim administration. It is time for the international community to equally welcome the birth and progress of the Khaatumo State of Somalia.

  35. As any other parliamentary democracy in the world, Somaliland Government is accountable to the Parliament. The Parliament is consist of 82 MPs, 37 of them are from Awdal, Sanaag and Sool. It is their job to call any minster at any time they want and ask him/her whatever they want.
    Those MPs came in 2005 Parliamentary elections held in Somaliland, they are absolutely elected MPs not nominated by anyone. Moreover, as Somaliland has bicameral legislative system there are other upper house of elders called GUURTIDA they are respected members from every region in Somaliland, they consist of 82 members as well and they are nominated by their Clans and traditional leaders .
    More than half of the GUURTI are from Awdal, Sanaag and Sool. Thus, Somaliland’s Government and its two houses are really democratically elected elements, as such including an independent judiciary system, they are accountable to with each other, in other words check and balance system. Our political system is strange to those in the southern Somalia and Siyad Barre’s remnants who never seen such kind of democracy. That is why they cannot believe that this is happening in part of former Somalia. As such, they hate it because they know that they will never dominate over others without consent, so they are trying to destroy it by any means and by any cost. They are distorting meetings between parliament and Government;(like the one between interior minister and the parliament) they are disseminating false and fabricated information by distributing and inciting racial hatred and tribalism, hypocrisy and trying to divide the Somalilanders.
    We Somalilanders, as proper citizens ,in one hand we are ready to defend our country and its borders against any terrorists and anarchists, because we love it and we are making sacrifice for it. Anyone who tries to destabilize this country will get his answer. On the other hand, we are ready to support our southern brothers to get out the problem that devastated their country by teaching them how we did it.
    Finally, I would like to mention that we know only terrorists(Al-shabab/Al-qaida) and those who benefit from the blood of Somalis( war-lords and anarchists,etc) are hating our peace and stability, but never ever again together, we know you well and we will defeat you.

  36. PetroTrans, a Chinese oil and gas producer could conclude preliminary negotiations with Somaliland for the extension of the key port of Berbera by the end of this year.
    Philip Hirschler, a legal adviser for PetroTrans, said from London the firm planned to extend Berbera port’s container and mineral export services following an agreement it signed with the government of Somaliland last August.
    Somaliland is an internationally unrecognized state that declared independence from Somalia in 1991, and hopes the deal will create thousands of jobs, raise its profile and attract more investments into the region.

  37. Ahmed Mohamed Mahamoud (Silanyo) is the 4th and current President of the Republic of Somaliland. Ahmed Silanyo was elected as President during the June 2010 presidential election, in a fair and free Elections.

    From 1946 to 1957, Silanyo attended secondary schools in the towns of Sheekh and Amud/Awdal in the then British Somaliland protectorate. He passed the advanced level GCE examinations in London, England, from 1958 to 1960. He then attended college at the University of Manchester, and earned an Honors Bachelor’s Degree in Economics (1960–63). He completed his Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of Manchester in 1966.
    Silanyo served as a official at the Ministry of Planning and Coordination in Mogadishu from 1965 to 1969. He was also the Minister of Planning and Coordination (1969–1973), the Minister of Commerce (1973–1978 and 1980–1982), and the Chairman of the National Economic Board (1978–1980). He was the Chairman of the Somali National Movement from 1982 to 1990, and was that organization’s longest-serving chairman. From 1993 to 1997, he was a member of the House of Representatives of Somaliland. He served as the Somaliland’s Minister of Finance from 1997 to 1999, in which position he initiated a program of fiscal reform. Between 1999 and 2000, he also worked as Somaliland’s Minister of Planning and Coordination, a position from which he resigned in 2001.
    He is the founder of Kulmiye Political Party(ruling party in Somaliland).

  38. Mr. Ambassador,

    To support my earlier post in which we reported that Mr. Siilaanyo ha decreed to call every Isaaq man and youth who is able to carry a gun to attack the Khaatumo State of Somalia, here is his interior minister meeting with all Isaaq clan traditional leaders and traditional chiefs asking them for support the campaign of war against the Khaatumo State of Somalia.

    Mr. Duur, the Isaaq clan interior minister (Somaliland) in summary and in essence addressing the crowd of Isaaq traditional leaders, says. ” ..you know we want peace, but if they (Khaatumo State of Somalia) does not comply with our wish of secession we will fight, and asks them, do you agree to fully support the government (which government: the Isaaq clan) to carry out its duties and responsiblities (which again means to gather the men and youth, financial resources, and raise awareness and moblization among the Isaaq tribes)…” All of them responded (the traditional leaders in attendance have raised their hands and shouted “yes, yes, yes, we will defend against them…”.

    This is the campaign of war being drummed in Hargeysa by the secessionists, and we need the world to watch and witness. The secessionist mentality is you can’t oppose me, I’m 100%, I will take your land, displace your people, and if you don’t agree there is absolutely no peace at all, you will be attacked with full force and with no mercy…if you don’t agree with me it means you don’t want peace!!! funny indeed!!!

    Here is a youtube regarding the Isaaq clan interior minister’s meeting with his tribal chiefs, please click and watch:.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFI8Y_5Zyn4

  39. Keenadeed, you are really sick person, physically or mentally ill; not well or healthy. I am saying this because you hate the stable/peaceful areas in former Somalia, Like Somaliland and Puntland and you never come up with an idea that the Ambassedor expecting from us to controbute creating peace and stability in Somalia.Instead you are consuming your time to collect any information that could create problem or destablise the peaceful areas of former Somalia by writing or forwarding hate speach and inciting racial hatred.
    Stop, prejudicial and false information that you are disseminating among us, this is not what we need, you have to understand what we need. Altruism (that is willingness to do things which bring advantages to other people, even if it results in disadvantage for yourself) is really what we need to do and learn
    .

    1. Ahmed,

      It’s not my intention to engage in an argument with someone on this professional and high stature forum facilitated by the UK Ambassador to Somalia Mr. Matt Baugh – It’s indeed a golden opportunity worth taking advantage of it in the most positive way. The purpose of the forum is to hear the different views of Somalis on the issues that matter for Somalia’s reconciliation on the political process, security, terrorism, piracy, and etc.

      Therefore, the information I’m submitting to the forum is of great value as it pertains to the facts on the ground. The fact of the matter is that the absence of Khaatumo State of Somalia and Awdal State of Somalia from the London Conference or any other effort for that matter will substantially prolong the conflict in Somalia. Denying the legitimate rights of any Somalian jurisdiction will not work either.

      On the other hand, it’s the culture of the die hard secessionists in Hargeysa and their supporters who resort to insulting people of different opinion.- insulting people with solid and practical opinions that are in contrast with the myth and unrealistic expectations maintained by the secessionists. Insult is the weapon of the failed and the desperate who run out of ideas and options. I believe it’s long overdue for you to think outside the box and see the big picture and the inevitable.

      Also, I would like to emphasize on the serious change has occurred in northern Somalia in terms of stability and security. The relative stability enjoyed in the north part of Somalia has been significantly reversed and can’t be anymore included in the list of areas of relative peace in Somalia.
      The southern part of Somalia is now a better candidate to be called and included in the list of areas of relative stability (unheard of lately eh).

      Mr. Silaanyo, the secessionist leader has just few days ago decreed that all Isaaq clan men and youth who are able to fight (able to carry a gun) report to the clan militia barracks for combat training and that salaries will be provided for them as of this month of February 2012!!! It’s Siilaanyo’s direct reaction to the losses and defeat of his militia fighting with Khaatumo legitimate defenders. This newly militia recruits will be immediately shipped to the borders of Khaatumo State of Somalia to fuel the war. Think about the serious consequences and if that is a step to the right direction – The type of hysterical decisions like this one will not lead to solutions helping end Somalia’s conflict and problems. As always Siilaanyo is narrowly and unrealistically pursuing to further his clan’s interest on the expense of other tribes – This will not work.

      Thank you,

  40. But, don’t you know that the Ambassador is well aware of that Somaliland’s 8 years president and predecessor of Silanyo was from Gadabursi Clan and is most respected person in Awdal region. Furthermore from that, did you forget that Somaliland’s current Vice president is from Gadabursi Clan and Awdal is the Mother of Somaliland.
    Shame on you, you are some one who really don,t know what he is writing, again and again, STOP! inciting racial hatred, STOP! incitement and hypocrisy and come up with innovations. According to your writings it is clear that you cannot come up with new ideas or solutions, absolutly you are part of Somali problems.
    Finnaly, let me tell you that Somalilanders are actually united and some like you will never devide.
    God bless the Somaliland.

    1. Interesting, Awdal is the mother of Somaliland!!! Now can you help us know, who is the father of Somaliland?

  41. Dear Ambassador,

    This a forwarded open letter from Awdal State of Somalia:

    An Open Letter to Hon. Henry Bellingham Minister for Africa Foreign & Common Wealth Office

    Subject: The London Conference on Somalia (February 23, 2012)

    Main feature: If Somaliland can break away from Somalia, then Awdal State has every right to secede from Somaliland and that is prominently embodied in Article 1 of the Charter of the United Nations.
    Hon. Minister;

    On behalf of the people of Awdal State, it is my pleasure to write this letter to you. Without taking too much of your time, the essence of writing this to you is to thank you and your government for the magnanimous effort for organizing and launching the London conference and hope that Britain’s initiative to hold this conference will bear fruit.
    Your Hon., we the people of Awdal State believe that this conference is a good avenue where the finest and most vibrant minds in the peace loving civilized world can find a strategy to address Somalia’s problems and to help its people. Apart from that, it also affords the insightful Somalis the opportunity to have an input to the solution.

    Your honour, with all due respect, as is obvious and should be, especially to the British government, Somaliland is not a new found land. It is the land which was known as the northern part of Somalia before the fall of the Somali Republic. It is the land which was before known as the British Somaliland. It is also the land where known tribes lived (Gadabursi of the Western regions, the Isaaqs of the Middle regions and the Dhulbahante and Harti tribes of the Eastern regions) long before the British colonized. Indeed it is not a new found land in1991. It is our good intention here to remind the world community that every clan in north Somalia (The former British Somaliland) has the right to determine its own destiny.

    Your honour, where is currently known as Somaliland was formed in confederacy of tribes united by a league based on an ideology of clans uniting to change the course to betterment (peace). A league based on understanding, cooperating, caring and sharing. It was a union with a vision of peace building and advancement.

    In contrast, it has become apparent that the agreed upon policy of the foundation of Somaliland has been hijacked by elements whose doctrine is embarked upon an ideology adventure which lead the agreement into a ditch – The so called Somaliland. These ego-centric power crazy and tribal minded elements have slowly and dangerously moved Somaliland towards a clan state where selfishness, greed, injustice and dominance have become the state norm. Elements whose doctrine states to wield control onto others and whose motto are to establish a one clan state to bend the will of others.

    Your honour, it is a mutual decision among the people of Awdal State that we must take a tough new line on Somaliland. We had enough with the methods of guide diplomacy and muted appeasement. These degrading schools of thought have clearly failed.

    Your honour, it is our good intention and duty to protect our rights. Awdal had this union relation with Somaliland since the formation of the confederacy and has not been able to get the slightest concession on respect and fairness. The fact of the matter is that Awdal has gone through a dramatic shift from two decades policy of one clan show to a policy of taking matters and protecting their rights under the hijacked clan based rule of Somaliland.

    It is obvious that people of Awdal are increasingly finding themselves facing economic decline, injustices and dwindling rights and these harsh circumstances have caused the people of Awdal State to drop their support of Somaliland and take their destiny into their hands. We the people of Awdal support a federal government of the people by the people and for the people of Somalia.

    There were numerous attempts to revive the functionality of the federal Somali government before; the one being initiated and organized by the British government is another to come. We the people of Awdal State thank the British government for their restless efforts to bring the Somali map back to the civilized peaceful world map.

    We the people of Awdal State recognize that the London conference is the last chance for the Somali people to come back to the world community and therefore would urge the British government and the other interested parties to pay attention to the main pillar which would hold the Somali house together. That pillar is the unity of the Somali nation. The idea of the power crazy Siraanyo led SNM group (Separatists) must not be allowed. Somalia must be one and only one government under one flag.

    Your honour, The two most important words the third world countries always hear and learn from the civilized western world are democracy and self determination. We urge the western countries and specially the British government to honour the real meaning of the words. We urge the stake holders that would attend the conference to exerciser the value meaning of what the civilized western world preaches.

    Somaliland must not be given the chance to separate from the rest of Somalia. Democracy and valuing the will and the desire of the people should take the front seat. Breaking Somalia into different parts will not solve the Somali problem but will further create more problems and will bring a new headache to the civilized world. Somaliland is not democratic and must not be allowed to play the self determination card as well. Surely those will also open doors for others to do the same.
    Somaliland’s undemocratic contradiction

    In a democracy, every citizen has certain basic rights that the government cannot take away from them. These rights are guaranteed under international law. On the contrary, in Somaliland people from western regions – the Gadabursi people (Awdal State) and those in the eastern regions – have no rights at all.

    People in that particular regions namely the Gadabursi and the Dhulbahante have no rights to have their own beliefs and to say and write what they think. If they say, write or even think against the so called Somaliland government they are automatically jailed with no mercy without any due process.

    There is no freedom and pluralism in the mass media in Somaliland. No media is allowed to report anything against the government. No media functions in the western regions (Awdal State) of the Gadabursi people and eastern regions of the Dhulbahante (Khaatumo State). No single person from Gadabursi tribe or the Dhulbahante even works in the Somaliland national media. And because of putting the lid on the peoples’ mouths, there are hundreds of Gadabursi people and the Dhulbahante that are in jails around the country who are accused of either saying or writing against the government.

    People in Awdal State (The Gadabursi) have no right to associate with other people, and to form and join organizations of their own choice nor have the right to assemble freely, and to protest government actions. There are hundreds in jails in Borama accused of supporting Awdal State political organizations.

    Your honour, in Somaliland, democracy is a system of rule by individuals not by laws. In Somaliland citizens are not equal. People of the western regions and eastern regions are discriminated against just because they are not of Isaaq clan. Hundreds from Gadabursi and Dhulbahante tribes are arrested, imprisoned, or exiled arbitrarily. Torture and cruel and inhumane treatment are the common norm in jails.

    Somaliland is a one-tribe government that has armed itself to the teeth, siphoning the bulk of international aid handouts to amassing military hardware and creating a military machine. That accompanied with the control being in one clan – if Somaliland is given the chance to break away from Somalia, make no doubt about it, the Somaliland government will surprise the civilized world to experience a genocide not seen in recent decades. To avoid that, the world community must not ignore the wishes of the other tribes in the region – The Gadabursi and the Dhulbahante who have been the habitats for centuries. Their policy of united Somalia should be honoured.
    Somaliland’s intent to self determination

    Somaliland is a one clan government, a government of one clan by one clan for one clan which sees the separation from Somalia as a chance of wealth for the people in the middle regions of Northern Somalia – the former British Somaliland. If hope is to emerge from the London conference with a stronger common understanding of the way forward and a renewed political commitment in the long haul, preference should be given to unionists (Awdal State and Khaatumo State). The separatists should be shut down.

    Essentially, the right to self-determination is the right of a people to determine its own destiny. In particular, the principle allows a people to choose its own political status and to determine its own form of economic, culture and social development. The principle of self-determination is prominently embodied in Article 1 of the Charter of the United Nations.

    Hence, if Somaliland is given the right for self-determination, then the other tribes – The Gadabursi and the Dhulbahante have also the right to freely determine their political status and freely pursue their destiny. Their right of self-determination to join to the Somali Republic should be honoured.

    The people of Awdal State have suffered under the one clan administration of Siiraanyo and will not tolerate to live in oppression any more. It should be known to the civilized world that the people of Awdal State have the right to full political independence. Awdal State should be allowed and supported for their right to take their destiny into their hands.
    Your honour Awdal State stands for;

    Awdal State is ready to control its destiny. People of Awdal have not only accepted responsibility but committed themselves to controlling their destiny. Awdal State made it clear that it stands for Somali unity and hence supports federalism unlike Somaliland (The separatists).

    Awdal State unlike the separatists of Somaliland supports a system of federalism to function in Somalia. A system with a single national government which exercises its particular powers across the country with multiple regional governments will serve the solution to the Somali problem. Regional governments that will in turn exercise their powers within their particular regional territory will further re-enforce the solution.

    In that sense for example, Awdal State like any other regional government will have its own particular jurisdiction in areas of public policy in which it and only it may exercise authority or may have the final authority. Unlike Somaliland, Awdal State stands for peace and good neighbourhood. Unlike Somaliland, Awdal state is democratic and guarantees the human rights and freedom of speech.

    Your honour, Awdal State has the right to self-determination. If Somaliland breaks from Somalia, then Awdal State has every right to break away from Somaliland and join hands with the federalism of all Somalis.

    Lastly, it should be known that if Awdal State is not allowed to present its case in the conference, the British and other interested governments and organizations should know that the representatives from Somaliland are only representing their own clan and not for the people of Awdal State (The Gadabursi) nor the other clans in the region.

    Suleiman A Dugsiye

    Executive Office chief of staff (Awdal State)

    http://harowo.com/2012/02/15/an-open-letter-to-hon-henry-bellingham-minister-for-africa-foreign-commonwealth-office-2/

  42. Dear Honourable Ambassador Matt Bough:
    Certain things must be taken into account apart from the formation of legitimate political representation across Somalia based on the will of the people, constituency politics, and limited multi-party system based on political idealogy. The participation of the civil society and political parties in the South and North and Other regions is a must such as the Hiil Qaran Political party and so on. It is also important that a follow up conference to London Conference in any where in Somalia where the Traditional Elders from the South, and North meet, civil society, political parties, politicians discuss what direction the nation should head. I am okay if Hargeisa holds such a meeting under President Silanyo auspices. What is important is that we need to seek a Somali solution by Somalis from both the successful North and the corrupt South is sought by the Somali people.

    Having said that, what I expect the London Conference should achieve is to provide a general framework that is different from the Djibouti process that was based on the flawed principle of 4.5 instead of the more legitimate power sharing bases of constituencies be it the colonial electoral districts of the 8 region model or the Said Barre electoral districts of the 18 region model.The politicians have to face the people and they must campaign on political platforms, they have to show that they have vision, they are capable of leading the nation, they have sound education, and sound aspirations. What I expect the London Conference to achieve is to help Somalia build a professional national armed forces that can take thwart terrorist attacks. A military that has all the accroutrements and equipment a professional national armed forces needs such as tanks, APC, anti-tanks, choppers, artillery, and marine and airforce component. Without these issues of security I think both piracy and terrorism might flourish. And effective national armed forces coupled with strong judicial system, democratic institutions, job creation programs;development programs aimed that taking advantage of the agricultural, value added goods potential for natural resources,fisheries, and tourism development for one of Africa’s longest and most prestine natural beaches.

    We also want our membership of the Common Wealth because the North was a British colony. We want the deals my father and my grandfather refused that is to have part of Oxford in Somalia. We want our educational institutions developed and our industrial across Somalia developed. Much of our grievences and power struggle is not about hatred. We Somalis love each other and resilent.Our wars and civil wars are about resources and limited resources. Not the stuff we have yet to exploit but the stuff out there. Ignorance and resource competition are helping politicians pit one of us against another.We need equal and equitable power distribution across the nation. We also want a free and fair system. We have to get the beginning right. Forget about the Djibouti and other processes start from stratch to right the mistakes of the past. We also want resources extraction help such as tin, tentalum, gem stones, oil and natural gas, iron ore, coal, and uranium. and we want that adequately and properly managed we also want to take advantage of our agricultural potential developed because Somalia has the potential to feed the entire of Africa for fifty years, we our fisheries and tourist industry developed.

  43. Dear Ambassador,
    I am the son of the service men of Great Britain in the African Riffle rangers. I think what is needed is not a two-state solution. I am sometimes rensentful to the country that my father served a decorated WII veterant. The Somali people are dissatisfied with the outcome of colonial partition. We are dissatisfied with the way Britain handover of NFD to Kikuyo rule despite the people’s verdict on one man one vote process that the overwhelming majority voted to be unitied with Somalia proper. It was a process that overlooked the will and the inalienable right of the people to their own self-determination. It is the will of the people to this day that they want to be united with Somalia. The same can be said of the Ogaden. Britain was an ally of the Somalia people and the Somali people’s contribution to the Army, Navy, and the Merchant Royal navy cannot be ignored over the past 150 years and to the British industries.

    What we hope besides reconcilliation in the South in the London Conference is autonomy for the Ogaden and NFD what were ceded to the Abyssian Highlanders and the Kikuyo of Kenya by Great Britain illegally against the wishes of the people. That will often bother Somalis in the mainland whether they are in Somaliland or Southern Somalia. It is our fundamental Human Right to be give autonomy to run and determine our own future. In order to rebuild Somalia one has to consider the broader regional issues. Kenya and Ethiopia had been part of the problem and had culminated the Somali problem to a large extent the way Somalia is today. It cannot be ignored that 1964 The Ethiopian King invaded Somalia in which he was defeated miserably. And in 1977 Somalia fought with Ethiopia to successfully reclaim the Ogaden. What I want to demonstrate is that those territories will always be problem between the neighbouring African states unless for now that autonomy for those two regions are considered.

    It will be hyprocritical to say I want to settle Somalia but not to look at the broader issues that affect the region. It is the manifest destiny of the people of the Ogaden and NFD to rule themselves and conduct their own affairs without being governed and massacred by Kikuyo and Highlanders. Our faith is intertwined with that of Somalia for better or worst. The Wajeer Massacre and the Garissa Massacre are perfect examples that the we are not part of Kenya and Derg massacres in the Ogaden and the Meles massacre are case in point a perfect example that we had never had been any part of Ethiopia either.

    As for the South grass-roots based represenation of the people based on political idealogy platforms, constitutency politics, and respectful politicians that lead the people based on education, credentials, achievement, and vision are needed. We are tired and sick and tired of outside impose solutions. We are sick and tired of government after government that lead to division. We are sick and tired of governments formed that don’t seem to have legitimate representation at the constituency level. We want Somalia to turn the page by letting the incoming parmanent government have powerful military that can take care of its own borders, that can guard its airspace, and that can patrol and protect its economic exclusive zone, and territorial waters and its rights to the waters off Somalia and the adjacent fishing grounds. Without an effective Somali Coast guard and navy the problem of piracy will continue. Without and effective well-equipped and well-armed national armed forces and police force the issue of terrorism will not continue to make headlines in Somalia it could make headlines in London and Paris or New York.

    The West for far too long contained Somalia because of ill-adviced Ethiopian and Kenyan driven agenda. But the problem of Alshabab is worldwide now and they are part of Al-Qaida the guys that bombed London and New York. The West must send military advisors and trainers to Muqdisho and must give Somalia the support it needs militarily such as tanks, APC, artillery, choppers, fighter jets, and police equipment and training. We can no longer afford to stand still and watch on the sidelines. And the fairy tales of the Ethiopian regime which is entrenched in a civil war of its own in the Oromia and the Ogaden cannot be listened.

    It was not that long ago that Kenya was spared from the brink of a civil for fundamental human rights abuses and corrupt power configuration and all those things need to be arranged and rearranged to have the entire region at peace with itself and with the rest of the world. Unless we correct that we cannot prop up the wrong parties and expect miracles. One has to look Somalia in the broader context.

    Also the recent developments in Nothern Somalia(Somaliland) must be managed properly such as the separation of Khatumo state from Somalia and hostilities prevention mechanism since Khatumo was not part of the signitories of the treaties with British Somaliland. Also the issue of Awdal state must be looked at carefully. We welcome Brother Silaanyo’s attendence at the conference but a lot has changed since he has been invited to the Conference and we cannot ignore in the new developments on the ground. We cannot ignore the reality that those regions too have the right to self-determination and the right to unite with Southern Somalia.

  44. It is high time for the UK to organise a conference that would seach for solution for the chronic somalian problems. However, I am afraid the parties in the conflict in somalia are not yet ready to make a peace deal among themselves. No wonder with the last 40 years somalia has been misruled by many leaders with total lack of justice for some part of the somalia. The last government disintegrated due to the injustice and atrocity committed against certain groups. The western governments and the regional brokers have played a significant roles in dismantling somalia. Now we have to have an open and honest talk. Unfortunately the agenda for the conference was already fixed and there would not be a meaningful discussion about the root cause of somalia problem. Somali people are deeply divided into tribal and clan lines. The last 40 years has been marked by a period of building a clan hegemony. How can the UK unravel this deep rooted problem with just a five hour meeting. The parties will come with their own condition and demand. How all these difference will be accommodated would be the core issue in this conference. I would have preferred to gather consensus before convening this meeting. Somalia is a problem to the world let alone to the region. However, it’s solution is far from over. I do not think this conference would solve the problem.

    What Somalia desperately need at the moment is a peace and reconcilation conference in which every parties to the conflict is given the chance to openly confess what they have done. The ethnic cleansing, genocide and murder of the somalia people could not be swept under the carpet and let the victims of these atrocity forgotten. I do not think Hitler would have been invited to solve the European problems during the second world war if he had survived the onslaught of the western liberating force. Somalia is hold hostage by a few people who have vested interest. The Somali people have to learn to apologise for what they have done to their fellow citizens. Specially the genocide committed against the people calling themselves Somalilanders, what they need is a heart felt apologise and compensation and setting up a proper mechanism whereby no further mistake would be committed again. Just as we have built the post war europe. This is what somalia need. I am afraid if the host of this conference do not understand the meaning of restorative justice, they would not achieve meaningful outcome.

    Somali has a long history of restorative justice. I do not know why the western has not encouraged the somalia warring groups to address the wrong they have committed against each other. This conference is prepared and organised by the UK without taking into account the long held tradition of somalia society. Restorative justice would help all the parties in the conflict to come together and see each others faces and find a last solution for the deep rooted somalia problem. I would be deeply disappointed if this conference end in fiasco as numereous conferences held in the past to bring an end to the problems of somalia.

    There would be two opposing parties coming to London on the day of the conference. The UK’s must make sure that the legacy of this conference should not create deep division among somali diaspora in the UK. Currently there is a deep animosity going underground between different sections of the somalia society in the UK. I do not want to see the somali people in the UK pick the fight after the conference finish. The backclash of this conference could be a serious challenge for community groups working for the creation harmony among somalians in the UK. I hope the UK would take this warning into account and make every precaution help the diapora living here in the UK build good relationship among themselves after this conference come to an end.

  45. The current approach of the UK in somali politics is missing some thing! It’s missing a clear objective’s such us how can we help somalis get a peace and help them selves. This conference is a one that will focus on piracy, extremist and so on. Well that is a clear thing to somalis that the west are only after their interest not the somali interest. I don’t blame the west for this i blame the somalis really, bacause they don’t know what is good for them. look at kenya, and ethiopia they have built them selves far ahead of their somali counterparts. This tells me somalis need to wake up from the long sleep they are in. Somaliland issue is entirely up to the somalilanders to decide where they want to go. I personally believe somalis can’t do anything about somaliland neither the international community. Somaliland elites don’t think like their somali counterpart in the south of just pleasing foreigners but what is good for their own people. There should be a referendum after somalia becomes peaceful is that produces a result of 50%+ yes of breakup then who can say NO to somalilanders? well no one neither somalis nor the international community. The urgency now is getting somalia peaceful. forget about somaliland in the mean time.

    Thank you all.

  46. Dear Matt, first, I would like take the opportunity to congratulate you for your new post as the official ambassador of British government in Somalia. secondly, to give my humble opinion about the London conference on the 23rd February 2012, I personally believe that it is a great chance for the Somali people and after good, I thank for the coalition British government leading by the conservative party taking this positive step forward to promote peace and stability in Somalia and its people by inviting more than 50 countries. I personally will emphasise two steps to be implemented in the conference:
    1. The Road Map leads by the Somali Federal government (TFG)
    2. Garoowe principles agreed by the established Somali politics stakeholders
    These two agreements should be defined the rule of law and the protection of the vulnerable people who have not the means and the education to protect their rights and the people who love peace and harmony should be rewarded for their positive attitude towards the rule of law. Contrarily, the spoiler’s peace and agreements reached in the process of the above stated accords should face firmly collective punishment from the international. I would also include the Somali integrity and sovereignty should be respected and Somali government has to be support in the area of judiciary system, army forces and police training and general government capacity building in the area of civil servant services.
    your sincerely

    Abdikayf Bashir Farah Bsc(Hons.) Public and Community Health
    Leicester City NHS Health Trainer

  47. Mr.Ambassador
    It seems that your Blog is under attack by Anarchists. They hate as you can understand from their sickening, false and appalling activties and ideas, the rule of law and stability that deepening and widening in Somaliland. As such, I think it will be good idea to tell them to stop inciting racial hatred that they are writing day and night and to come up with ideas to make peace and stability in Somalia, not to create destabilization among Somalilanders whom have been living over the past two decades peace and stability.
    Those people are as you can understand from there meaningless writings Anarchists, so that we will never benefit from their reckless ideas.
    I think Somaliland and Puntland together they could help entire Somalia to get out the problmem, but first they should have to come together and create better relations, so that they will lead restoring hope and rebuilding Somalia politically, economically and socially.
    They are really in my view the best model that we could have, and then together we can defeat anarchists and terrorists.

  48. I’d like to hear the view of the ambassador and his goverment to cabout the the human rights violation of Somalilands militia or correctly Isaq milatia who kill and oppress the innocent people of Khatumo state of Somalia and Awdal State of Somalia.??

    that one clan administration claim to be recognized as a independent state while the majority of northern people are against like the population in Sool,Sanaag and awdal.

  49. Mr. Ambassador,

    The following link will take you to Reuters News. Reuters has reported on the on-going war between the Hargeysa Secessionists and the Unionist Khaatumo Sate of Somalia. We would like to correct Reuters choice of words “Somaliland Clashes with Secessionists”!!! And say this, every body knows that Somaliland is the secessionist party because they are trying to secede from a legitimate country Somalia. However, Khaatumo State of Somalia and the secessionist North West Somalia clan = Somaliand are both equally part and parcel of Somalia.

    Khaatumo State of Somalia has nothing to do with the Isaaq clan illegal unilateral declaration of 1991, instead the two communities are neighbors. While the Isaaq clan announced their unilateral secession in 1991, they only partially “few small pockets” occupied of Khaatumo State of Somalia territories in late 2007 using force -These glaring facts is an evidence showing that the unionist Khaatumo is not seceding but remains where it always been (with Somalia).

    Just yesterday February 9th, 2012 the secessionist leader Siilaanyo has for the third time fired his militia commander, this time, Mr JIdhif and his deputy due to the repeated defeats sustained by his militia on the hands of Khaatumo State of Somalia forces who are defending their territories and regional administration. In fact, the latest reports indicate that the secessionist clan administration in Hargeysa and its militia are in serious disarray because of the victories of the Khaatumo State of Somalia forces in the battle ground and the imminent total evacuation of Siilaanyo militia out of Khaatumo State of Somalia territories.

    Therefore, it’s not surprising that an Isaaqi website “Qarannews” reported today that Mr. Jidhif, the fired commander’ has resisted to hand over the leadership to the new clan militia commander Mr. Ismail Shaqalle. Jidhif the out going militia leader has been serving in this position for less than two months. His complete failure and loosing ground to Khaatumo State of Somalia has cost him the job. However, the Khaatumo State of Somalia officials are saying that every secessionist militia commander will face the same fate, if not worse, and will make no difference.

    Most importantly, because of the new realities on the ground, the whole enclave is in a state of shock and currently they are mobilizing all their resources and available militia recruits to the front lines in a suicidal type of sorts with the motto “we either take Khaatumo territories or loose everything”!!!

    http://af.reuters.com/article/topNews/idAFJOE81901T20120210

    Read below (though in Somali) the Qarannews Report on Jidhif’s refusal to handover his duties as commander:

    IDHIF oo Ganafka ku Dhiftay Isku Dayday Xukuumaddu ku Doonaysay Inay GUDDOODI Xilka Kaga Wareejiso

    Written by Qaran news
    Feb 10, 2012 at 04:50 AM

    JIDHIF oo Ganafka ku Dhiftay Isku Dayday Xukuumaddu ku Doonaysay Inay GUDDOODI Xilka Kaga Wareejiso

    Hargeysa(Qaran news)-Mujaahid Maxamed Xasan Cabdillaahi (Jidhif) oo Xalay si lama filaan ah Madaxweyne Siilaanyo xilkii uga qaaday Taliyaha Ciidanka Qaranka ayaa ku gacan saydhay isku day Xukuumaddu ku doonay inay isla Xalay xilka ugu kala wareejiso Taliyaha cusub ee Ciidanka Qaranka Ismaaciil Shaqale iyo Mujaahid Jidhif.

    Ilo-wareedyo ku dhaw-dhaw Qasriga Madaxtooyada ayaa Wargeyska “Yool” u sheegay in Xubno Golaha Wasiirada ay Xalay fiidkii Gurigiisa ugu tageen Taliyihii hore Ciidanka Qaranka Mujaahid Jidhif, kuna wargeliyeen inuu isla Xalay ku wareejiyo masuulka cusub ee Madaxweynuhu jagadda u magacaabay, xubnahaas oo sida wararku xuseen kala ahaa Wasiirka Maaliyadda Md. Maxamed Xaashi Cilmi iyo Wasiirka Arrimaha Gudaha Md. Maxamed Nuur Caraale (Duur) ayaa ku guul-daraystay isku daygooda ka dib markii Muj. Jidhif uu gaashaanka ku daruuray dalabkoodii.

    Ma kala cadda in qorshaha arrintani uu ahaa mid kasoo fulay Madaxweyne Siilaanyo iyo kale. Sidoo kale lama garan karo sababta ku keliftay inay gudoodi inay xilka ka wareejiso Taliyaha, iyada oo haddiiba ay jiraan duruufo aan saamaxayn in arrinta waaberiga lagu simo heli karaysay inuu hawl-galo Taliyaha cusub. Hase-yeeshee, waxay arrintani u muuqataa in tallaabadaasi ahayd mid Xukuumaddu ku hadoodilayso fadeexado la xidhiidha fashilaad siyaasadeed oo lasoo dersay Xukuumadda uu hoggaamiyaha ka yahay Axmed-Siilaanyo, isla markaana ay kaga gabanayso waxyaabo aanay ku farxayn oo ay tuhun ka qabto inay kasoo yeedhaan Taliyaha aan xilka ku laba biloodsan.

    http://www.qarannews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12769&Itemid=62

  50. Hi All

    It seems Somali problems are exacerbating from one to the other and Somalis have to blame themselves. The international community have an interest in the region and every one of them will consider their interest first before Somalia. Somalis have to recognise that there is something called “a common interest” and once that common interest is realised the individual’s interest can also be achieved. Let’s put our difference aside and work together to rebuild the Somali nation on the basis of equality, Human rights the rule of law and justice.

    The legitimate authority in Somalia at the moment is the TFG whether we like it or not. It is governed by the Transitional Federal Charter which was adopted in 2004. It seems this legal document has been superseded by the Kampala Accord, followed by Garowe Principles. The TFG parliament was formed under 4.5 principles and all Somali tribes have representatives and it is currently, the only authority which has a legislative power in Somalia. The Garowe principle was adopted by a few signatories and this will determined the future shape of Somalia. The Garowe principle was not put before the parliament for its approval and some would argue that unless it is ratified by the Somali current parliament, it has no any legitimacy and therefore would be illegal to rely upon. It needs modification to be more inclusive in order to be able to end the transition.

    The questions how to end the Transition should be debated in the Somali Parliament first and the parliament internal dispute needs to be resolved before the London Conference so that there can be a debate on these issues in a Somali parliament which will give more weight to the conference.

    It appears that the international communities are not keen to develop the Somali institutions such as police, military, and other government and civil institutions. They rather in the past put more weight on AMISOM and other foreign forces. Some will ask themselves why this is the case, it is because of fear of corruption or tribalism within the Somali institutions? Or there is a different agenda?

    In addition to that there is an emerging “copy cut” regional entities in Somalia which rather than representing a region is more becoming a clan or sub-clan entities and the recognition of these entities will pose a great risk to Somalia and the region as a whole.

    The London conference needs not to be a talk show like other conferences and above all the British reputation are at stake here. Britain needs to due a balancing exercise for not favouring one community on the expenses of others and needs to engage more in rebuilding of the Somali institutions rather than supporting personalities. The route causes of Somali problems some would urge, is the tribalism, but tribalism can only prevail where there is no justice. The Somali justice system has been ignored since the independence and Brain need put justice on the top of the agenda.
    The underlining principles must be a genuine reconciliation, security, Somali unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity and the rule of law and justice.

    Hest wishes
    H. Haji

  51. Dear Matt

    Thanks for working for a better Somalia for the interest of us all.

    The problem in Somalia is in south, support the south Somalia to stand on their feet such as the Somaliland, Puntland and Galmudug administration have done. The solution in Somalia is, we as south Somalia need to have support from the international communty to fight against the Alshabab that are destroying our beloved country not only through TFG but the south region elders.

    Islamic Court Union model was working in south Somalia brought peace lets bring back that successful justice movement!!!!!!

  52. To: Matt Baugh
    Waa ku salaamayaa marka hore, salaan ka bacdi waxaan soo dhaweeynayaa hindisaha dowlada ingiriiska iyo shirka London 23-Febrayo, waxaana u rajeeynayaa guul.
    Intaas ka bacdi arinta soomaaliya sida aad la wada socotaan waxaa ku jira jahawareer aad u badan sidii loo xalin lahaa.
    Tusaale Hadii Qof isku dayo qof xanuunsan inuu caawiyo su’aasha ugu horeeysa ee uu weeydiinayo waa xagee ku xanuuneeysa? Waxaase adag in la daweeyo hadii qofku garan waayo meesha xanuuneeysa. Hadii qofaf badan su’aashaas oo kale la weeydiiyo qof waliba waxuu kuu sheegayaa meesha uu jecel yahay ineey xanuuneeyso isgoo xanuunka wada haya saldhig uga dhigaya meesha uu jecel yahay.
    Waxaa taas la mid ah Soomaalida hadii aad su’aalo weeydiiso boqol qofood oo isku deegaan ka timid isku heeyb ah dhibaatada soomaaliya isku si u sameeysay qof waliba waxuu ku siinayaa jawaab nuuc ah maxeey tahay sababtu? Magaranayo meesha laga hayo iyo sida loo hayo. Markaas waxuu cabirayaa rabitaankiisa qofeed oo barina isbadali kara.
    Taas Macanaheedu maahan yaan Soomaalida wax la weeydiinin ee waa qorshaha halagu darsado inaana garaneeyn meesha na xanuuneeysa. waxaa noqoneeynaa qof maduxu cuncunayo oo xoganaya lugta. Markaas meeshii saxda aheyd ma xogan.
    Hadaba sidee loo helaa cudurka haya Soomaliada si loo daweeyo ?
    Waxaa loo heli karaa sidaan asalkii in lagu noqdo (back to original) macnahedu yahay bulshadan Soomaliyeed markii hore waa caafimaad qabtay cudurku xagee kaga yimid maxaa ku dhaliyay oo sababay.
    WAA
    CADAALAD-DARO CADAALAD-DARO CADAALAD-DARO
    Si looga baxo cadaalad daradaas waa in asalkii loo laabtaa lana dhisaa gudi kala ilaaliya isku ilaaliya wada ilaaliya dhamaan xuquuqda Muwaadinka Soomaaliyeed.
    Gudigaas waa in laga soo xulaa degmooyinka hoos ku qoran degmadiiba qof dumar ah iyo qof rag ah, soo xulista waa in shardi looga dhagaa qofku inuu dagan yahay deegaanka lagana yaqaan sumcad iyo magacna ku leh.
    Guddiga soo xulistiisa waxaa aad uga qeeyb qaadan kara hey’adaha samafalka sida ICRC, Bisha-Cas ee Soomaaliyeed iyaga ayaa degma walba xaafiis ku leh.
    Shaqada Guddigan waa Tiro-koobka umada Soomaaliyeed Qaban qaabinta Baarlamaan tayo leh qeeybinta gargaarka umadda Soomaaliyeed loogu talagalay.
    Gudigaan waxuu hoos imaanayaa Guddi heer caalami ah oo dowlada Britain hogaamineyso.
    Waxaa ku caawinaya gudashada shaqadooda ciidamada AMISOM
    Gudiggan talo iyo amar midna kama qaadan doono dowlada hada jirta iyo maamulada jira.
    Guddigan waxuu noqon doonaa Network la shaqeeya International community oo joogta ah.
    Guddigan xarun dhexe eey isugu yimaadaan ayuu yeelan doonaa iyo Database uu ku shaqeeyo iyo shaqaale hoosaad shaqada la wada.
    Districts Men Women Salary Total
    Aadan Yabaal District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Abdiaziz District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Afbarwaaqo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Afgoi District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Afmadow District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baardheere District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baargaal District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Badhaadhe District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Badhan District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baidoa District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baki District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Balcad District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baled Hawo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Balidhidin District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baraawe District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Bareeda District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Baxdo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Beledweyne District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Bender Bayla District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Berbera District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Bondhere District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Boon District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Borama District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Bosaso District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Bu’aale District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Burao District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Burtinle District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Buuhoodle District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Buuloburde District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Buurdhuubo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Buurhakaba District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Caabudwaq District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Cadaado District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Cadale District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Caluula District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Carmo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Caynaba District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceel-Afweyn District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceelbare District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceelbuh District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceelbuur District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    ceelcadde district 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceeldheer District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceelwaaq District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ceerigaabo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Dangoroyo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Daynile District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Dhahar District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Dharkenley District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Dhusa Mareb District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Diinsoor District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Dilla District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Doolow District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    dur’duri District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Eyl District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Gaalkacyo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Gabiley District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Galcad District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Galdogob District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Garbadadar District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Garbahaarreey District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Garoowe District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Geerisa District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Gumaroow District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Guriceel District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hadaaftimo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hamar-Jajab District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hamar-Weyne District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Harardheere District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hargeisa District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hingalol District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hobyo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Hodan District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Howl-Wadag District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Huriwaa District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Iskushuban District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Jalalaqsi District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Jamaame District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Jariiban District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Jilib District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Jowhar District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Kaaraan District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Kismaayo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Kurtunwarey District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Laascaanood District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Laaso-Surad District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Laasqoray District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Lughaya District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Luuq District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Magaala cad District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Mahaas District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Mahadaay District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Marka District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Matabaan District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Midigale District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Muudiye District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Oodwayne District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Qandala District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Qardho District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Qasahdhere District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Qodax District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Qoriyoleey District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Rabdhuure District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Ruunirgood District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Sablaale District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Sakow District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Salahlay District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Saylac District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Shangaani District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Sheikh District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Shibis District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Taageer District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Taleex District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Tiyeegloow District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Waabari District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Waajid District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Wadajir District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Wadajir District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Walaweyn District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Wardhiigley District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Warsheikh District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Xaabo District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    xeraale district 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Xiriiro District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Xuddur District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Xudun District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Yaaqshiid District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Yed District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    Yubbe District 1 1 $700.00 $1,400.00
    129 129 $180,600.00

    Waxaan is dhihi karaa araktideeyda hadii la helo dad sidaax loo soo xulay oo deegaanka ma tala, hoos yimaad Guddi kale oo heer caalami ah oo la xisaabtama in Cadaalada soo celinteeda eey ka shaqeeyn karaan.
    Waxaa kaloo muhiim ah in Gudigaas uu soo xulistiisa aan lagu tix galin qabiil ee lagu tixgaliyo shaqsiyad wanaaga qofka deegaankaas
    dadka tirada yar ee deegaan walbana dagan waa in la tix-galiyaa.
    Mahadsanidiin
    DADAALKA CAALAMKU U HAYO XALINTA SOOMAALIYA WAA MUHIIM WAXAASE KA MUHIIMSAN IN SOOMAALIDU GAROOWSATO XALKEEDA.
    WAXAAN ORAN KARAA CAALAMKU MA FAHMI KARO SOOMAALIDA WAAYO KOR AYUU KA JOOGAA KUMA DHEX JIRO.
    WAXEEY WARBIXINTA KA HELAAN KHUBURO JAGA DOON IYO CUNO DOON AH MARKAAS XALKA SAXDA HA HAD IYO JEER LOOMA SHEEGO WAANA WAXA FASHILIYA SHIR WALBA OO SOOMAALIDA LOO QABTO.

  53. I am one of the many Somali Unionists who loathe seeing our country disintegrate into a plethora of mini-states that can potentially lead to perpetual divisions and conflicts. Professor Ahmed Samatar, a Somali Unionist recently voiced his opposition to the creation of new States such as Awdal State and the Khaatumo State of Somalia. While I can understand his stand and sympathize with it wholeheartedly, I would like to argue that the two new states cannot be compared to the multitude of Diaspora based one-man show entities inspired by hidden agendas and self-interests. Both States are determined to defend the Somali Union from highly motivated and determined secessionists who will stop at nothing to achieve their goal of dividing the Somali nation even to the extent of using violence.
    The Khaatumo State did not see the light on 12 January 2012 as many would like to believe. It was created in the early 1990s after the collapse of the Somali government in a town known as Boame. The State was meant to fill the vacuum created by the absence of a credible government in Somalia. Unfortunately, the State could not function at that time for lack of financial support since the Khaatumo Diaspora at that time was almost non-existent. It also failed because many believed in the quick emergence of a functioning Somali government. In contrast, Somaliland and Puntland became successful administrations as a continuation of well-organized clan-based militias that contributed to the overthrow of the Somalia government. The Khaatumo regions did not participate in the disintegration of the Somali State and did not have any clan-based agendas or organized militias that could be converted to security forces.
    The new Somali State of Khaatumo is actually meant to preserve Somali Unity and not to weaken it as feared by some. It is also meant to eliminate the conflict that has raged between the two neighboring States of Somaliland and Puntland over the regions that have now adopted the Khaatumo brand. These regions had been unfairly labeled as disputed territories by the UN and other International Aid groups and were therefore denied any development aid for the last 20 years. As a result of such wanton neglect, these regions lag behind all Somali territories in terms of social and economic development.
    On my recent trip to Taleh to attend the Khaatumo congress, I was shocked to see the gaping disparity between these regions and those in Puntland and Somaliland. To illustrate this point further, Yagoori, a village where I spent my formative years and remember as a vibrant and growing place, showed signs of economic stagnation and social decline. I could not help but Compare yagoori to Oog, another village along the same highway from Burao to Las Anod as Yagoori, but established much later than yagoori. Oog is a growing town with signs of progress compared to yagoori. People in Yagoori live on salaries paid by the Somaliland administration to phantom soldiers. Powerful warlords get paid 3 times the number of actual soldiers they have under their command. The money does trickle down in the form of Kat purchases, a powerful drug that prevents people from thinking or doing any form of productive work. This can be compared to the free liquor supplied to indigenous people by the white settlers in the Untied States and Australia. The tactic is meant to buy the loyalty of the local population who do not subscribe to the secession agenda being pushed by the Somaliland administration. Were these salaries to evaporate, so would the Somaliland clan militia based at strategic locations along the highway from Burao to Las Anod. Somaliland believes that the control of the highway could determine the fate of Somaliland and its dream of becoming an independent country.
    The lack of actual loyalty to the Somaliland cause in the Khaatumo regions can be graphically illustrated by the failed attempt to apprehend the author and a member of the G62, the group that is behind the Khaatumo concept, on our way back from Taleh. The whole village of Yagoori where we stopped for the night stood up to the heavily armed militia deployed by the Somaliland administration from Las Anod to apprehend us and ship us to the infamous Mandhera prison. To preserver life and to avoid punitive retaliatory action by the Somaliland militia against the village, we decided to leave Yagoori on foot to areas outside the control of the militia, and we were eventually whisked to Galkayo in Puntland where we were welcomed with open arms. We traveled through hundreds of miles of unpaved roads and our 4X4 driver could only be compared to the best world class rally drivers for his dexterity at the wheel.
    Unfortunately a few other delegates were not as lucky and got arrested in Berbera on their way back to their adopted countries. One of these delegates is a British citizen who entered Somalia with his British passport. His only crime was to attend the Khaatumo Congress. The British Government that provides generous aid to the Somaliland enclave needs to take note of the way its citizens are being harassed and jailed without due process.
    As if the harassment of the Khaatumo delegates were not enough, the Somaliland Administration mobilized its meager resources to invade Buhodle, another Khaatumo city near the border with Ethiopia. The main tactic behind the attack was to force the Buhodle delegates at the Khaatumo Congress to abandon the Congress. Such tactic failed since there were more than enough men and women on hand to stand up to the aggression of the Somaliland militia. After the Yagoori incident in which the S/L administration failed miserably to apprehend us, we went to Galkayo, a major town in Puntland to catch a flight from there. While in Galkayo, we managed to visit the wounded that were brought from Buholde for treatment. They were all innocent civilians who were caught in the crossfire between the defenders of the city and the invading Somaliland militia. With rudimentary medical facilities, most of the wounded could have been treated in Buhodle instead of being ferried across hundreds of unpaved roads to Galkayo. This fact again illustrates the neglect and abandonment of all the Khaatumo villages and towns: more than sufficient reason to establish the Khaatumo State of Somalia which is expected to cater to the basic needs of its residents.
    The Khaatumo State is a Federal State that strongly believes in the Unity and Integrity of the Somali Republic. It is the product of a democratic forum where all the stakeholders of the Khaatumo regions assembled under the now famous Khaatumo tree (Berdaha Khaatumo), debated, and voted for the creation of a State that caters for their development needs. 345 delegates representing all the sub-clans of the Khaatumo regions unanimously voted for the autonomous state. The vote was resoundingly ratified by all the traditional leaders who have been refugees for 4 years in Puntland after the capital of their State was illegally invaded and occupied by the clan-based militia in Somaliland.
    Both Somaliland and Puntland have no choice but to welcome the new State as an equal partner in the long road towards rebuilding the Somali state. Instead of wasting another 20 years chasing an unrealistic dream of dividing the Somali people, Somaliland has to prove to the world that its democratic claims are for real. Democracies do not use violence against unarmed civilians. Democracies do not arrest innocent civilians for expressing their opinions. Democracies do not arrest citizens of foreign countries for attending Congresses in territories outside their controls. Democracies do not use bullets to suppress peaceful demonstrations such as the one in Las Anod where young men and women were killed in cold blood for no other reason than supporting the Khaatumo declarations. It is unfortunate that an Administration that tries so hard to build a façade of democracy, stability and good governance should favor violence over dialogue to resolve its differences with the Khaatumo delegates and architects.
    The language of clan hatred pouring from Hargeisa can only plunge the whole region into unpredictable consequences. Somalis can ill afford another protracted civil war in an area that has so far escaped the carnage in the South of the country. The recent statements of the oldest statesman in Hargeisa, Haji Abdi Warabe, should alarm all Somalis. He recently called for genocide and the ethnic cleansing of those opposed to the Somaliland secession. “Dhulku ma guure, dadkaa guura” is a Somali statement that calls for the forced evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Khaatumo residents from their land.
    The men and women chosen to lead the Khaatumo State are ready for cooperation and peaceful dialogue. They are also ready to defend their regions and residents against any aggression. Self defense is a God given right and is a Universal value. Somaliland has no legal claim over the Khaatumo State. Old colonial borders that disappeared 52 years ago are no justification for coercing others to adopt a wrong cause. While dividing the Somali people is morally wrong and reprehensible, it is a well documented fact that the Khaatumo clans never signed any protection agreements with the British and are therefore outside the colonial borders used by Somaliland to justify its secession.
    Let us hope that reason will prevail over the language of hate. At the same time, the world community needs to closely watch and monitor the area if it is to avoid another Rwanda.

  54. Ahmed, you statement not only shows how out of touch you are with reality on the ground believing the nonsense propaganda your so-called Somali-LAND government is feeding you but how your thoughts have made you blind and illogical. First, no1, before you accuse me of anything read my posts, all of them. You will clearly see I have been recommend solutions not problems. Secondly, no2, I have nothing against Somali-LAND people, they are our brothers and sisters, however the Somali-LAND government forcing a group of people to fall inline of their way of thought ie secession is not only unacceptable but it is undemocratic if that is what the so-called Somali-LAND government principals and values are.

    They can’t force a group of people sorry not group but regions and majority populace of that region to either accept a secession idea or be disciplined through war machine Somali-LAND has built over the year with the aid of British government. This to me is absolutely unacceptable.

    Your so-called government complain about the previous regime and their indiscriminate attack of civilians today too fall inline with government way of thinking is hypocrisy. As history tells us when a government becomes oppressive they always resort to violence rather than peaceful negotiation hence what is happening now in Syria and other parts of the world with Arab spring.

    I am not inciting hatred or discrimination but repeating the words of all NEWS outlets stating the current situation of the GROUND. Somali-LAND army starting a war with regions that wants to join Somali Republic. First of all accept there is no SUCH country called SOMALILAND. There is only a country called Somalia Republic. Check encyclopaedia or books. There is no country sitting at the UNITED NATION called SOMALILAND!!! This hypocrisy, out of touch, foolish way of thinking, Alice Wonderland fairy tale story can’t go on and because of this illogical, nonsense thought result to innocent people dying. This must STOP and it MUST STOP NOW before too much bloodshed is shed. Sool,Sanaag and Ayn regions belong to Somalia Republic and regardless no group of people whether they call themselves Somali-LAND government or army can force people to join them BY FORCE when they (populace of those regions) clearly stated their intention in Taleh conference that they want to stay with Somali Republic as federal state. Accept reality brother Ahmed!! I am stating the truth and you want to bury it as much as possible but really in this day and age with free follow of information people try to hide the truth. Use Google properly and find out what is going on and stop talking nonsense.

  55. It’s funny how Britain decide to do something about Somalia NOW.
    May I let you all know that a company called Range Resources Limited, along with two other companies, are currently drilling for oil in Puntland (the 1st time a drill bit has hit the ground in Somalia for over 20 years).

    News from these companies is expected in the next 2 weeks to confirm that they have found oil. Original estimates indicate over 20Billion Barrels of Black gold.

    Now I ask you the question again, why are the British all of a sudden concerned about Somalia? Mmmmmm I wonder.

    Wherever there is oil, you will find Britain, America and their buddies. They will do whatever it takes to get their dirty hands on it, will this result in another war for Britain, America or the puppet French?

    Who knows, but it’s so obvious what Britain is doing…yet again.

  56. Awais, look, you seem not to understand why we are writting here, you have to come out with ideas to stabilize Somalia, not to destabilize Somaliland. Sool is Las-anod, Sanaag is Erigavo and Cayn is Caynabo, all are very stable areas, we can go and visit any time. Somaliland authority are working day and night to maintain and develop these areas.
    Buhodle is one of Togdheer Region districts. Tell us where you are?
    I cannot understand what you are talking about and where you are from. This country (Somaliland) is very peaceful country like UK and we are inviting Mr.Matt Baugh to visit and see how the situation of those areas are, so what would say then!!!.
    Stop, Hypocrisy and incitement. You really seems to be one of the Somali problems.

  57. The Bigger Picture………….Khaatumo State of Somalia
    Khatumo State is the newest formed state of Somalia and widely Somalis around the globe have celebrated the birth of this state. The uniqueness of this state is having slogans “One Nation, One People, Under one flag –the blue one” not seeking separation from the rest of the country like the secessionist group called themselves Somaliland. Khatumo State is part and parcel of Somali Republic and it stands for peace and unity for all.
    In the event that the Khaatumo State (and other States from NW Somalia) is not present at the conference, the British government and other participants from governments and international organisations should know that the representatives from Somaliland are only representing and speaking for their own clan and not for other regions and clans. Not only do the four unionist clans have nothing to do with the secession of this renegade entity but the wider international community, as represented at this conference, consider these unionist in NW regions as part and parcel of Somalia. It is incumbent upon the conference, and particularly the host country, to make that position clear to Somaliland.

  58. I dont know whether to laugh or cry. Somalia is not a country that is in a position to demand and demand. Wake up and accept this is a failed state like no other.

    For a generation the world has witnessed the inability and sheer negligence of the management of state affairs.

    If this was a scientific study you would conclude the current formula is not working.

    Best thing to have come out of this war is that Somalis are now more globalised then any other African people. We are spread all across the globe, speak different languages and have all been fast tracked to enlightenment.

    As a Somali westerner I now see the hypocracy of the power struggle for the Somali people. If there is a sense of decency amongst all of the commentators here, then you all would preach one thing only; PEACE.

    The desire to resolve conflicts through dialogue must be of paramount importance. Historically the clans have always been at war, however the luxury of being a refugee is the recognition that violence is not the way forward.

    Offcourse Britain is protecting its own interests here and rightfully so. It saddens me that even the last peaceful area of the Somali Republic is also now under attack.

    I do warn the preachers of hate that this is 2012 and those of us who live in free society will oppose those who attempt to stirr up conflict back home. This is easy as for example in the UK inciting hatred is illegal.

    Whatever maybe of the conference I am sure the Somali people have been radically transformed and only time will tell what this entails.

    It amazes me that so many of the players in current day Somali politics are the same old guard, whilst this is the case the conflict will continue.

    So please may I remind every one who comments on here to preach peace for the sake of the child or mother who in 2012 is at a refugee camp in the desert.

  59. Ahmed, stop your propaganda nonsense all the world can see this is not skirmish fighting this is a serious fight and innocent women and children are dying because of one clan declaration to rule with no legitimacy to rule regions of Sool,Sanaag and Ayn regions.

  60. Urgent intervention is needed by the British government and International Community to stop a war that is taking place now. Heavy fighting between the self-declared state of Somaliland soldiers and local militia has resumed again on Wednesday in a town in Ayn region in northern Somalia, residents say.

    Eyewitnesses told Shabelle Media that, the combat flared up after “Somaliland soldiers launched on offensive” on Megagle village in Ayn region, where it is a military base for SSC fighters with both sides used heavy machine guns and mortars.

    No one knows yet the exact of death and injuries it caused but the sound of the weapons could be heard major parts in the town and Information on casualties was not immediately released.

    The tribal militias in Buhodle town of northern the country is trying to defend a newly declared state (Khatuma) in nearby town of Taleeh which is aimed to declare the formation of a semi-autonomous state- Somaliland claims with no legitimacy that it has legal authority to rule regions of Sool,Sanaag and Ayn regions.

  61. Dhulbahante are Somalilanders and Buhodle is one of Togdheer Region districts. There was a short skirmishs between Buhodle and Qorilugud districts, it is not that serious, why are you exagerating it. This is Somalilands internal affairs(domestic) it has nothing to do whit foreigners.
    Hence, as The Government has promised it will be solved soon.
    you are inciting racial hatred by distributing false information.

  62. Dear Ambassdor,

    A dangerous war is happening in the north of Somalia and the situation is deteriorating by the minute. The war casualties there are increasingly larger than those of the south of Somalia. This is what is happening now because of the continued aggression of the Isaaq clan on the Dhulbahante population and their territories:

    The SNM tribal militia has launched for the third time in a month their attack on the Khaatumo State of Somalia stationed at Sool Joogto and Meygaagle areas in the Buuhoodle district. Local media reports that The SNM’s current attach (Somaliland) occurred today Februrary 8th, 2012 and as always were crushed by the Khaatumo State of Somalia and local defenders. Further the reports add that the aggressors has sustained heavy damages and lost their positions to Khaatumo State of Somalia forces. In addition, the aggresion has resulted in many people killed, injured, and displaced. On their part, the Khaatumo State forces and local defenders have displayed several armored vehicle and several prisoners of war they captured from the Isaaq clan SNM (Somaliland).

    Meanwhile, local reporters and officials say that the tensions are high and the opposing forces are receiving a lot of re-enforcements and fighting could resume at any minute.

    Moreover, the reports coming from the area have revealed that the SNM militia has been for the last month killing the Khaatumo nomadic population, robbing their livestock, and hindering the nomads water their livestock from the water wells in the area to cause hunger, thirst, and death among the Khaatumo nomadic population and their livestock.

    Again and again the attacking Isaaqi militia and their bosses in Hargeysa have been offered and asked to withdraw to their tribal territories to achieve peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the two neighborly communities and their local administrations. Unfortunately, the Isaaq clan has instead decided to continue the aggression and preferred to further their suicidal attacks on the Khaatumo State of Somalia.

    The Khaatumo State of Somalia and its unionist and its population who are fighting in self defense are disappointed by the silence of the International Community on aggression and slaughter being on daily basis carried out by the attacking Isaaq tribal militia on the neighboring Dhulbahante tribe and its Khaatumo State of Somalia. The most unfortunate fact is that the aggressors (Isaaq clan = Somaliland) is using the international aid provided for development projects to recruit tribal mlitia, equip them, and feed them to cause wars in the area.

    Therefore, it’s requested that the International and in particular Great Britain to intervene in this escalating and dangerous wars in the north of Somalia and advice the aggressors to stop trespassing to neighboring administrations and communities and withdraw their tribal militia for the interest of the Isaaq clan first and for the interest of everyone else

    All local media oulets have reported on the war launched by the Isaaq clan, the following link is among them:

    http://allssc.com/?p=22241

  63. Somalia London conference.Is it real or fake?
    The Somali state has become an object of charity after two decades of political crisis; multiple actors claim that Somalia needs international humanitarian assistance and military intervention due to terrorism, piracy and famine. For over twenty years these pleas led to no progress and the Somali people have seen continuing death and destruction and as a result continue to suffer the consequences. The Somali people feel humiliation despite claims of international generosity towards the Somali people. The United Kingdom has now decided to host a conference on Somalia and Prime Minister, David Cameron said in his speech to the Lord Mayor’s banquet on 14 November 2011, “that Somalia is a failed state that directly threatens British interests. Tourists and aid workers kidnapped, young British minds poisoned by radicalism, mass migration, and vital trade routes disrupted.” This statement does recognize that there is a problem in Somalia that threatens the security interests of the United Kingdom and some argue that this recognition to change the conditions that contribute to the Somalia quandary gives a new purpose and opportunity to resolve this problem. Moreover, others go even further and say that this constitutes an act of generosity. But others characterize the prescription of the London Conference a testament of the Eurocentric neocolonial mentality of the 21st century as the Somalis were never consulted with about the scope, nature and intentions of the Conference. They point to the sketchy non-paper diplomatic details released so far as having colonial intentions. They warn that the London Conference creates the illusion of acting but will not be different than that of the 19th century colonial rule that gave Africa its current political configuration. They propose that real change must come from the society itself by rejecting tribal politics, religious extremism, foreign domination and becoming real actors in pursuing an authentic political change by restoring justice, freedom and unity.

    The intention of this paper is to make the London Conference an object of reflection for my beloved Somali brothers and sisters and for those who are truly in solidarity with the Somali nation. In doing so, I want all to reflect on the current conditions of Somalia. In this perspective, the Somali people SHOULD NOT BE TREATED to be mere objects and this is to urge the Somalis to respond to the changes occurring around them and question whether the London Conference is an act of love and generosity or whether it is another grand design with predictable dire consequences . To verify this, we must examine first the current condition of Somalia and contrast it with the proposals of the London Conference, good intentions notwithstanding. In doing so, we will discover the intentions and designs of the London Conference and arrive at objective discovery after thorough examination. Moreover, this paper will project a vision for Somalia in its conclusion that reflects the desire of the Somali people, hoping that the London Conference will make an effort in this direction.

    The State of Somalia

    Reality in Somalia today is very grave in economic and political terms; there is widespread poverty and sporadic famine crises. The country is in political crisis characterized by multiple foreign actors and visions reflective of personal and political desires that are not anchored with the will of the Somali people.

    The TFG has not evolved to a legitimate institution despite international support owing largely to a lack of vision and its lack of responsiveness to societal needs. It is a well known fact that people in Somalia feel safer under Al-Shabab controlled areas as they face greater risks of robbery and rape in areas managed by the TFG/AMISOM authorities. Targeted killings of reporters and other local leaders are exceptionally high in these areas. Socially, there is awareness among the Somali people that tribal politics (4.5 federalism) and religious sectarianism have failed the nation and overcoming both of these dogmas are urgent priorities for the Somali people. The current Somali leadership have become pawns of these deterministic views and the agenda they push inside and outside Somalia is reflective of the political disconnect and lack of legitimacy these leaders find themselves in Somalia. The 4.5 power-sharing formula and the foolish actions of Al-Shabab do show this divide. However, the 4.5 clan power-sharing formula and its new political dispensation, Federalism, are as oxymoron as crash-landing is in the Somali political landscape. They are designed to reshape Somalia into smaller controllable clan based states. The proponents of the Somali Federalism project are three groups. First group includes neighbouring countries of Somalia; these are Kenya and Ethiopia, which due to their selfish state interests oppose a strong Somali state with robust central authority. In their view, a weak Somali state is antithesis to Somali nationalism that may pursue the restoration of ‘Greater Somalia”, which calls for the unification of the Somali territories in Ethiopia and Kenya with the contemporary Somali Republic. They fear a strong Somali state and pursue policies that maintain the current “weakened state” status of Somalia. The second group entails individual Somalis who are blinded by clan hatred and desperation for power. They believe that the devolution of power benefits them as they will have power to advance clan interests. The third group, the U.S. and the EU is the most dangerous as they fund this project and have a long-term strategic interest in the entire region. In this respect, the U.S.A. and EU are facilitators of the humiliation and suffering of the Somali people as they continue to empower Kenya and Ethiopia to engage in the destabilization of Somalia. In this way, a system of domination is created where the Somali people find themselves powerless and on the periphery. Decisions are made without the Somali people through subservient tribalist “Somali leaders”.

    The Kampala Accord and its subsequent Somalia roadmap marginalize the sovereignty of Somalia as its proponents, IGAD and UNPOS dictate to the “Somali leaders” as a result of the mandate of the Accord. The United States attaches greater values to democracy while it is strangely supporting this oppressive roadmap. This contradiction supports the argument that this Accord precisely endorses their agenda in Somalia. As a result of this, the wider Somali public feels humiliated. This disgraceful action will lead to Somali nationalism as history shows and evidenced by the rise of German nationalism after WWI. It is already taking shape around this circus of “Somali Conferences”. How long can the Somali people continue to live in this oppressive reality and remain impotent?

    The London Conference

    As announced last November, 2011 by the U.K. government, “over 40 countries and multilateral organizations will come together in London with the aim of delivering a new international approach to Somalia”. From this view, it is evident that there is a recognition that there is an opportunity to build an international consensus to “tackle both the root causes and effects of the problems” in Somalia. The British government is convinced that Somalia represents a security risk, not only to Britain but to the International Community as evidenced by the growing radicalization and piracy in Somalia. London views Al-Shabab, a group listed as a terrorist group, as representing a growing security concern due to a large Somali community presence in England. Similar concern is shared by other countries such as Canada, U.S.A, and others in Europe and Africa. Similarly, the growing threat of piracy in Somalia impacts many more nations around the world. Moreover, recurring famine and other humanitarian needs in Somalia represent no less important challenges. These factors are additionally complicated by the weak institutions and complex political environment in Somalia. Currently there is a Somali peace process that has its contradictions. The new roadmap calls for ending the transitional political arrangement and the recently concluded Garoweh meeting which was scheduled to formally do so has produced another four years of transitional period and institutions. The announcement of the London Conference comes in the midst of this confusion.

    Recently released documents show an intense consultation and communication from U.K. government with other relevant countries, individuals and groups. These papers show the political mindset of the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, and the United Nations Political Office for Somalia, Italy, Kenya, Ethiopia, some Muslim and Arab countries and the Transitional Government of Somalia and other Somali regional stakeholders. Remarkably, these consultations show that the Somalis were not consulted with prior to the announcement. This shows that the intention of this conference is not to empower the Somali people to make a collective decision that the world can support, because if that was the case the logical approach would have been to consult with the affected people, that is to say initiate a consultative phase with the people of Somalia before embarking and announcing the London conference. It is absurd not to realize that though Somalia is shattered they still have the capacity to understand and be resilient and often international actors who lack the knowledge of local terrain discount such positive aspect of local knowledge by imposing their will and Western values as reflected in this upcoming London conference. Moreover, the proposal from Italy bizarrely advances a neocolonial agenda that puts Somalia under trusteeship. This is an affront that outraged the Somali people inside and outside the country. It similarly shows why the Somali people do not and should not trust any foreign intervention. Wholesale euphemisms such as “piracy threats”, “terrorism”, “and humanitarian intervention” are used to malign and discredit, with the intention to erode the self-determination and sovereignty of the Somali people. The Somali people are deprived of their voice and unjustly dealt with over the years by the U.S. and its European allies of France, Italy and England by continually supporting the destabilization of Somalia by Kenya and Ethiopia. For these states to affirm the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia over and over again in their communications and support the continuing invasions of Ethiopia and Kenya is an extreme contradiction. Can the London Conference be in solidarity with the Somali people who are yearning to address their political, social and economic problems and at the same time continue to support the war crimes continually committed by Ethiopia and recently joined by Kenya? The Eurocentric approach that is expounded in the popular press with slogans such as “the Somali people cannot handle democracy and civilized constitutionalism” as one recent “Somalia expert” purports in her latest book, Somalia: “Getting Somalia Wrong? – Signs of Hope in a Shattered State – a Realistic but Empathetic Analysis.” must be totally rejected and discredited. Edward Said must be rolling over in his grave every time a European scholar with his/her Eurocentric biases and through field observation writes as an expert on cultures of other people.

    The Somali people have been traditionally making collective decisions in their communities for centuries. Similarly, Democracy is a rational or idealistic concept which endorses the idea of collective decision making freely in areas of mutual interest such as law and order, quality of life, culture and distribution of wealth. Given that democratic decision making is not an alien concept to the Somali people, why is it that irrational discriminatory political dispensation such as 4.5 power-sharing clan formula is advanced in Somalia with the financial support of the international community?

    Conclusions

    The aim of the London Conference is to “pull together international effort” in order to make sure that the current international effort in Somalia and the Somalia peace process succeed according to the U.K. government. This Conference has surely spurred the interest of the Somali people. Many hope that this Conference may offer a new direction and bring an end of two decades of failed international policy. Others are skeptical and are worried that the U.K. is not driven by generosity and has its own selfish agenda. However, the Somali people are better positioned this time as there is genuine will to transcend the tribal politics that has undermined the State sovereignty and the unity among the people for the past two decades. The London Conference should capitalize this goodwill and move to:

    * Provide guiding principles, or terms of reference to make this conference more transparent, so far as the Somalis are concerned, they are suspicious of this conference due to its secrecy and lack of transparency.

    * Have a clear detailed consultation framework at the outset; the fact that this conference will address agendas set by outsider with no clear framework will only complicate its outcome.

    * Provide clarity of what an end result would look like. The government of UK can only facilitate but let Somalis decide the best approach to address the Somali conundrum. Somalis and other participants of conference have common objectives to address security, terrorism and piracy; it is in the best interest of all to address a common problem collectively.

    * Make the Conference a two round process to develop ideas and refine them; let this be a brainstorming exercise and set up another conference inside Somalia. It is illogical to be holding conferences outside of Somalia while addressing security problems pertaining to Somalia. A serious action plan to address piracy and terrorism needs to be inside Somalia and supported by the Somali people inside the country.

    And finally any outcome must make sure that Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is maintained and individual freedom and choice is guaranteed.

    1. Dear Mohamed,

      Althought I was a bit reluctant about reading your long comment/paper, I somehow couldn’t stop reading.

      Everything that you’ve said is absolutely true or atleast the way I’ve been feeling whenever the West and our neighbours try to insinuate themselves into Somalia’s affairs under the guise of “goodwill”and “security”.

      I truely believe that the distruction of Somalia has given the sucessionists, terrorities, and foriegn bodies the advantage to benefit from our suffering. The root cause of Somalia’s distruction stems from colonial times with the “rush for Africa” when backdoor deals were made by the colonialists with Ethiopia and Kenya in creating boarder-lines that separated our people. The divide and conquer tactics used by our former colonialists, lack of leadership and trust amongst ourselves are the main problems that exists and continue to flourish in our region.

      Given the past, we shouldn’t let it dictate our future. We should work together to come to a common consensus as Somalis that is not dominated by tribal politics.

      Maybe you should be our next leader. You do strike me as one.

      Best Regards and keep up the good fight,

      Amina

  64. The Somali state has become an object of charity after two decades of political crisis; multiple actors claim that Somalia needs international humanitarian assistance and military intervention due to terrorism, piracy and famine. For over twenty years these pleas led to no progress and the Somali people have seen continuing death and destruction and as a result continue to suffer the consequences. The Somali people feel humiliation despite claims of international generosity towards the Somali people. The United Kingdom has now decided to host a conference on Somalia and Prime Minister, David Cameron said in his speech to the Lord Mayor’s banquet on 14 November 2011, “that Somalia is a failed state that directly threatens British interests. Tourists and aid workers kidnapped, young British minds poisoned by radicalism, mass migration, and vital trade routes disrupted.” This statement does recognize that there is a problem in Somalia that threatens the security interests of the United Kingdom and some argue that this recognition to change the conditions that contribute to the Somalia quandary gives a new purpose and opportunity to resolve this problem. Moreover, others go even further and say that this constitutes an act of generosity. But others characterize the prescription of the London Conference a testament of the Eurocentric neocolonial mentality of the 21st century as the Somalis were never consulted with about the scope, nature and intentions of the Conference. They point to the sketchy non-paper diplomatic details released so far as having colonial intentions. They warn that the London Conference creates the illusion of acting but will not be different than that of the 19th century colonial rule that gave Africa its current political configuration. They propose that real change must come from the society itself by rejecting tribal politics, religious extremism, foreign domination and becoming real actors in pursuing an authentic political change by restoring justice, freedom and unity.

    The intention of this paper is to make the London Conference an object of reflection for my beloved Somali brothers and sisters and for those who are truly in solidarity with the Somali nation. In doing so, I want all to reflect on the current conditions of Somalia. In this perspective, the Somali people SHOULD NOT BE TREATED to be mere objects and this is to urge the Somalis to respond to the changes occurring around them and question whether the London Conference is an act of love and generosity or whether it is another grand design with predictable dire consequences . To verify this, we must examine first the current condition of Somalia and contrast it with the proposals of the London Conference, good intentions notwithstanding. In doing so, we will discover the intentions and designs of the London Conference and arrive at objective discovery after thorough examination. Moreover, this paper will project a vision for Somalia in its conclusion that reflects the desire of the Somali people, hoping that the London Conference will make an effort in this direction.

    The State of Somalia

    Reality in Somalia today is very grave in economic and political terms; there is widespread poverty and sporadic famine crises. The country is in political crisis characterized by multiple foreign actors and visions reflective of personal and political desires that are not anchored with the will of the Somali people.

    The TFG has not evolved to a legitimate institution despite international support owing largely to a lack of vision and its lack of responsiveness to societal needs. It is a well known fact that people in Somalia feel safer under Al-Shabab controlled areas as they face greater risks of robbery and rape in areas managed by the TFG/AMISOM authorities. Targeted killings of reporters and other local leaders are exceptionally high in these areas. Socially, there is awareness among the Somali people that tribal politics (4.5 federalism) and religious sectarianism have failed the nation and overcoming both of these dogmas are urgent priorities for the Somali people. The current Somali leadership have become pawns of these deterministic views and the agenda they push inside and outside Somalia is reflective of the political disconnect and lack of legitimacy these leaders find themselves in Somalia. The 4.5 power-sharing formula and the foolish actions of Al-Shabab do show this divide. However, the 4.5 clan power-sharing formula and its new political dispensation, Federalism, are as oxymoron as crash-landing is in the Somali political landscape. They are designed to reshape Somalia into smaller controllable clan based states. The proponents of the Somali Federalism project are three groups. First group includes neighbouring countries of Somalia; these are Kenya and Ethiopia, which due to their selfish state interests oppose a strong Somali state with robust central authority. In their view, a weak Somali state is antithesis to Somali nationalism that may pursue the restoration of ‘Greater Somalia”, which calls for the unification of the Somali territories in Ethiopia and Kenya with the contemporary Somali Republic. They fear a strong Somali state and pursue policies that maintain the current “weakened state” status of Somalia. The second group entails individual Somalis who are blinded by clan hatred and desperation for power. They believe that the devolution of power benefits them as they will have power to advance clan interests. The third group, the U.S. and the EU is the most dangerous as they fund this project and have a long-term strategic interest in the entire region. In this respect, the U.S.A. and EU are facilitators of the humiliation and suffering of the Somali people as they continue to empower Kenya and Ethiopia to engage in the destabilization of Somalia. In this way, a system of domination is created where the Somali people find themselves powerless and on the periphery. Decisions are made without the Somali people through subservient tribalist “Somali leaders”.

    The Kampala Accord and its subsequent Somalia roadmap marginalize the sovereignty of Somalia as its proponents, IGAD and UNPOS dictate to the “Somali leaders” as a result of the mandate of the Accord. The United States attaches greater values to democracy while it is strangely supporting this oppressive roadmap. This contradiction supports the argument that this Accord precisely endorses their agenda in Somalia. As a result of this, the wider Somali public feels humiliated. This disgraceful action will lead to Somali nationalism as history shows and evidenced by the rise of German nationalism after WWI. It is already taking shape around this circus of “Somali Conferences”. How long can the Somali people continue to live in this oppressive reality and remain impotent?

    The London Conference

    As announced last November, 2011 by the U.K. government, “over 40 countries and multilateral organizations will come together in London with the aim of delivering a new international approach to Somalia”. From this view, it is evident that there is a recognition that there is an opportunity to build an international consensus to “tackle both the root causes and effects of the problems” in Somalia. The British government is convinced that Somalia represents a security risk, not only to Britain but to the International Community as evidenced by the growing radicalization and piracy in Somalia. London views Al-Shabab, a group listed as a terrorist group, as representing a growing security concern due to a large Somali community presence in England. Similar concern is shared by other countries such as Canada, U.S.A, and others in Europe and Africa. Similarly, the growing threat of piracy in Somalia impacts many more nations around the world. Moreover, recurring famine and other humanitarian needs in Somalia represent no less important challenges. These factors are additionally complicated by the weak institutions and complex political environment in Somalia. Currently there is a Somali peace process that has its contradictions. The new roadmap calls for ending the transitional political arrangement and the recently concluded Garoweh meeting which was scheduled to formally do so has produced another four years of transitional period and institutions. The announcement of the London Conference comes in the midst of this confusion.

    Recently released documents show an intense consultation and communication from U.K. government with other relevant countries, individuals and groups. These papers show the political mindset of the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, and the United Nations Political Office for Somalia, Italy, Kenya, Ethiopia, some Muslim and Arab countries and the Transitional Government of Somalia and other Somali regional stakeholders. Remarkably, these consultations show that the Somalis were not consulted with prior to the announcement. This shows that the intention of this conference is not to empower the Somali people to make a collective decision that the world can support, because if that was the case the logical approach would have been to consult with the affected people, that is to say initiate a consultative phase with the people of Somalia before embarking and announcing the London conference. It is absurd not to realize that though Somalia is shattered they still have the capacity to understand and be resilient and often international actors who lack the knowledge of local terrain discount such positive aspect of local knowledge by imposing their will and Western values as reflected in this upcoming London conference. Moreover, the proposal from Italy bizarrely advances a neocolonial agenda that puts Somalia under trusteeship. This is an affront that outraged the Somali people inside and outside the country. It similarly shows why the Somali people do not and should not trust any foreign intervention. Wholesale euphemisms such as “piracy threats”, “terrorism”, “and humanitarian intervention” are used to malign and discredit, with the intention to erode the self-determination and sovereignty of the Somali people. The Somali people are deprived of their voice and unjustly dealt with over the years by the U.S. and its European allies of France, Italy and England by continually supporting the destabilization of Somalia by Kenya and Ethiopia. For these states to affirm the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia over and over again in their communications and support the continuing invasions of Ethiopia and Kenya is an extreme contradiction. Can the London Conference be in solidarity with the Somali people who are yearning to address their political, social and economic problems and at the same time continue to support the war crimes continually committed by Ethiopia and recently joined by Kenya? The Eurocentric approach that is expounded in the popular press with slogans such as “the Somali people cannot handle democracy and civilized constitutionalism” as one recent “Somalia expert” purports in her latest book, Somalia: “Getting Somalia Wrong? – Signs of Hope in a Shattered State – a Realistic but Empathetic Analysis.” must be totally rejected and discredited. Edward Said must be rolling over in his grave every time a European scholar with his/her Eurocentric biases and through field observation writes as an expert on cultures of other people.

    The Somali people have been traditionally making collective decisions in their communities for centuries. Similarly, Democracy is a rational or idealistic concept which endorses the idea of collective decision making freely in areas of mutual interest such as law and order, quality of life, culture and distribution of wealth. Given that democratic decision making is not an alien concept to the Somali people, why is it that irrational discriminatory political dispensation such as 4.5 power-sharing clan formula is advanced in Somalia with the financial support of the international community?

    Conclusions

    The aim of the London Conference is to “pull together international effort” in order to make sure that the current international effort in Somalia and the Somalia peace process succeed according to the U.K. government. This Conference has surely spurred the interest of the Somali people. Many hope that this Conference may offer a new direction and bring an end of two decades of failed international policy. Others are skeptical and are worried that the U.K. is not driven by generosity and has its own selfish agenda. However, the Somali people are better positioned this time as there is genuine will to transcend the tribal politics that has undermined the State sovereignty and the unity among the people for the past two decades. The London Conference should capitalize this goodwill and move to:

    * Provide guiding principles, or terms of reference to make this conference more transparent, so far as the Somalis are concerned, they are suspicious of this conference due to its secrecy and lack of transparency.

    * Have a clear detailed consultation framework at the outset; the fact that this conference will address agendas set by outsider with no clear framework will only complicate its outcome.

    * Provide clarity of what an end result would look like. The government of UK can only facilitate but let Somalis decide the best approach to address the Somali conundrum. Somalis and other participants of conference have common objectives to address security, terrorism and piracy; it is in the best interest of all to address a common problem collectively.

    * Make the Conference a two round process to develop ideas and refine them; let this be a brainstorming exercise and set up another conference inside Somalia. It is illogical to be holding conferences outside of Somalia while addressing security problems pertaining to Somalia. A serious action plan to address piracy and terrorism needs to be inside Somalia and supported by the Somali people inside the country.

    And finally any outcome must make sure that Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is maintained and individual freedom and choice is guaranteed.

  65. Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    What a fabrication and transparent lie you have written, Mr. Osman. Don’t waste your time these people know more than you think.

  66. An Open Letter to: Hon Henry Bellingham, Minister for Africa Foreign & Commonwealth Office

    Subject: The London conference on Somalia (23 February 2012)

    Hon Minister, We the Forum for Foreign Relations of the recently established Khaatumo State of Somalia, based on the northern regions of Sool, Sanaag and Cayn regions (SSC) in NW Somalia (former British Somaliland) would like from the outset to thank you, and, through you, the British Government for organising this conference. We are already indebted to Great Britain for its unrivalled generosity to the Somali people since the collapse of the Somali State. Today, Britain hosts the largest Somali diaspora anywhere in the world whose remittances are the only source of income for tens of thousands of Somalis who would otherwise have perished. We hope that Britain’s initiative to hold this conference, even if belated, may all the same be the one that finally finds a solution for Somalia’s long-drawn out political and security problems.

    Turning to the London conference, we consider the topics selected for the conference as ones that strike a deep chord with most Somalis who care about their country. While some issues are of particular importance for the outside world, such as those relating to security, terrorism and piracy, others, such as the political process and local stability, are of greater interest to us as Somalis (and no less to the international community) since they are the bedrock on which rests the emergence of a functioning national government or regional authorities that could shoulder their respective responsibilities for security, terrorism, piracy, etc.

    As such, unless progress is made on these key areas- the political process and local stability- we believe that the international community is unlikely to find sustainable solutions to the problems of piracy, terrorism, religious extremism and recurring humanitarian crisis. Given the interdependence among these issues, we are pleased that the conference had adopted a holistic approach towards addressing them.

    However, progress on the political process in Somalia at the national level would not be achieved unless the prevailing local instabilities at the regional levels involving clan conflicts are first resolved. The only such major clan-related conflict in Somalia at the moment is the one raging in NW Somalia (Somaliland) between the Isaaq clan dominating the secessionist government based in Hargeisa and the unionist Dhulbahante clan hailing from the SSC regions.

    The fundamental problem between the secessionist clan and the others is not solely over their irreconcilable differences on Somalia’s unity per se. Rather, the all encompassing and paramount principle that divides them, and which the unionist Khaatumo State and others are defending, is their inalienable right to self-determination and specifically their God given right to decide for themselves their destiny. What the secessionist clan has done and continue to do is to flagrantly trample on these regions rights to self-determination, occupy their regions and force them to join their secession. This is unacceptable and it is the cause for the on-going conflict in NW Somalia (Somaliland). Unless resolved, it is bound to escalate into a wider regional conflagration as other clans related to one side or the other take sides. This could scupper any progress made on the other areas of concern to the London Conference.

    A brief reminder of the background to the present crisis in the NW region of Somalia (Somaliland) is necessary in order to see the current situation in its right setting. It begins with the collapse of the Somali State in January 1991. All the clans in Somalia except one have remained unwavering all these years in their commitment to the territorial unity of Somalia. The exception is the Isaaq clan who unilaterally declared the secession of the NW region (former British Somaliland) from Somalia, which they named “Somaliland”, an act opposed by the other four unionist clans in the territory.

    As part of implementing this secession, the mainly Isaaq militia of Somaliland, making full use of the massive arsenal left behind by the disintegrated Somali national army, initially captured the western Awdal region inhabited by the unionist Gadabuursi and Isse clans. Though left alone for a number years, the unionist Dhulbahante and Warsangeli clans in the SSC regions, fearing possible invasion from Somaliland, entered into a defensive alliance with their fellow Harti/Darood clans in the NE Somalia to form the Puntland State of Somalia in August 1998.

    This alliance among the Puntland (Harti/Darood) clans has for some years deterred Somaliland but in the end it invaded and occupied Lascanod, the SSC capital, in October 2007, taking advantage of Puntland government’s indifference to the defence of this city or the rest of the SSC. Somaliland thereafter claimed it had control over the whole former British Somaliland, though in reality only partially.

    Though uprisings in Lascanod against Somaliland’s occupation has been intermittent since the city was captured, little of this has filtered to the outside world given the area is landlocked and subject to communication blackouts imposed by the occupiers. Since then, much water has flowed under the bridge and the current situation in the Khaatumo State is one of open warfare between the Isaaq clan (Somaliland) and the SSC people now belonging to the newly established Khaatumo State of Somalia. This is where we are now.

    Following in the footsteps of the Gadabuursi and Warsangeli clans, who earlier established their own regional States of Somalia, the Dhulbahante clan in the SSC regions in their turn created their Khaatumo State of Somalia at a clan conference held in the famous fort of Taleex on January 2012. This development more than anything else has sounded the death knell for the aspirations of Somaliland’s secession and for good reasons. The Khaatumo State is contiguous with the rest of Somalia and Ethiopia, and, more worryingly for Somaliland, can get moral and material support from the Darood clans in Puntland, the rest of Somalia and also in the Ogaden of Ethiopia. As such, a Khaatumo State that is free from Somaliland’s occupation is inevitable, ensuring the continuation of the unity between southern and northern Somalia and ushering the demise of the secession

    The new State was welcomed not only by these Darood clans but also the TFG and the rest of the Somali people everywhere other than the Isaaq. Somaliland’s response to these unfavourable developments was to launch successive all-out attacks on Buuhoodle, the second largest town in the Khaatumo State, with a view to nipping this nascent regional State in the bud. These attacks were however crushed by the SSC civilian defenders. While there is a lull in the fighting now and then, these are used by Somaliland to regroup and re-supply their forces isolated in the heart of the SSC.

    The longer Somaliland continues to use force to maintain its occupation of Lascanod and resorts to futile military operations to bring Buuhoodle under its control, the more likely that other Darood clans get sucked into the conflict. Al Shabaab, who will not hesitate to fish in troubled waters, may also join the fray. The best way to prevent a spiralling conflict and concomitant instability in this region is for Somaliland to accept to live in peace with its neighbours, to renounce the secession and the use of force as its main instrument of hegemony over other clans.

    Somaliland (i.e.Isaaq clan) and its leaders have for long deluded themselves that an international community despairing of the endless turmoil in southern Somalia will eventually recognise them as the only viable and functioning area where peace and a modicum of governance prevail. Above all, there is a self-serving make-believe among the clan at every level that Great Britain, which they perceive, rightly or wrongly, as having closer relationship with them than any other clan, will eventually recognise them when the right moment arises. The London conference would be a fitting place where Great Britain should reaffirm to the people of Somalia its commitment to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. That would dispel the delusions of the clan as well the lingering distrust of other Somalis about Britain’s good faith, a legacy of its historical role in the carve-up of the Somali homeland in the Horn.

    Turning to the participation of the conference from the Somali side, we notice that only representatives form the TFG and several regional authorities have so far been invited to attend. However, if the participation at the conference is to seen as equitable and representative of Somalia, the minimum requirement is that all the established regional states from southern and northern Somalia are invited on equal footing. In this respect, we urge that the newly established Khaatumo State, representing the three regions of Sool, Sanaag and Cayn(SSC) of Somalia, be invited.

    In the event that the Khaatumo State (and other States from NW Somalia) is not present at the conference, the British government and other participants from governments and international organisations should know that the representatives from Somaliland are only representing and speaking for their own clan and not for other regions and clans. Not only do the four unionist clans have nothing to do with the secession of this renegade entity but the wider international community, as represented at this conference, consider these unionist in NW regions as part and parcel of Somalia. It is incumbent upon the conference, and particularly the host country, to make that position clear to Somaliland.

    Please accept, Hon Minister, the assurances of my highest consideration.

    Osman Hassan
    Chairman, Foreign Relations Forum
    Khaatumo State of Somalia
    Geneva

    Email: osman.hassan2@gmail.com

    CC: His Excellency Matt Baugh
    British Ambassador to Somalia

    http://www.jidbaale.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2258:an-open-letter-to-hon-henry-bellingham-minister-for-africa-foreign-a-commonwealth-office&catid=34:english-news&Itemid=53

  67. Will the London conference change Somalia’s future?

    A great article written by Professor Abdi Ismail Samatar

    Abdi Ismail Samatar is professor of geography at the University of Minnesota and a fellow at the University of Pretoria.

    http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2012/02/20122395853170145.html

    I urge and invite all to ponder and reflect on this article as it clearly shows a way forward for Somali peace process, written by a great Somali intellectual and delivered by Aljazeer.net.

  68. Amina
    Thanks for the question. I don’t know the tribes of those MPs, but what I do know is that Somalilanders from every clan or tribe had agreed on this share many many years ago. So I think every tribe is satisfied with their respect proportion. Moreover, I would say there are very unjustice power sharin among the government(Cabinet) ofSomaliland. This is because I know that Harti (Somalilanders) never get their fair shair, since the Declaration of Somaliland.

    1. Ahmed,

      Can tell us how the 109 Mps are divided? and on what ground? Any clan can claim to be majority, but here 0ver 85% of MPS are from Isaaq clan? why is that? While there was never any proper census done? Is it the one of the reasons Somaliland Isaak clan running away from Somalia cuz they don’t think they are getting fair share, the same applies to Harti and Gadabursi clans in Somaliland.

      It is very easy and basic, how can you build a government with a group that are trying to distort history, and not looking the obvious thing. Seriously, when did Harti clans of former British Somaliland you claim agreed to secession? Can you show us the document? It does not exist, Somaliland is clan entity, and desperately trying to hijack the voices of Somalis in North Somalia who are against secession.

      The whole Somaliland thing is flawed and you know that.

  69. When the sun rises over the craggy hills of Hargeysa, it sheds light on a different kind of Somalia.

    Ice cream trucks hit the streets. Money changers, unarmed and unguarded, push cash through the market in wheelbarrows. Politicians from three distinct parties get ready for another day of debate.

    It is all part of a Somali puzzle: how one area of the country, the northwest, also known as Somaliland, can seem so peaceful and functional — so normal, in fact — while the rest continues to be such a violent, chaotic mess.
    Full story below link.
    http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/06/world/africa/06iht-somalia.4818753.html?pagewanted=all

  70. Here is a very interesting news article from London’s Daily Mail. The writer, Ian Birrell, met with Edna and says of her, “no one epitomises the nation’s indomitable spirit more than Edna Adan Ismail, or Dr Edna, as everyone knows her.”

    Turns out, the remarkable success of Somaliland – in spite of going unrecognized as an independent country – is being cited now as evidence that direct aid to governments in the developing world may actually do more harm than good. Many believe that democratic and stable Somaliland could not have achieved what it has if governments elsewhere had done more to help.
    The entire article is very well worthwhile reading.
    http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2018055/Somaliland-The-British-colony-shows-Africa-doesnt-need-millions-flourish.html

  71. Somalia was created in 1960 when the former British Somaliland united with the former Somali Italian colony. Since then its development has been slow. Relations with neighbors have been soured by their territorial claims on Somali-inhabited areas of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti.
    Britain withdrew from British Somaliland in 1960 to allow its protectorate to join with Italian Somaliland and form the new nation of Somalia. In 1969, a coup headed by Mohamed SIAD Barre ushered in an authoritarian socialist rule characterized by the persecution, jailing and torture of political opponents and dissidents. After the regime’s collapse early in 1991, Somalia descended into turmoil, factional fighting, and anarchy. In May 1991, the northern clans declared an independent Republic of Somaliland that now includes the administrative regions of Awdal, Woqooyi Galbeed, Togdheer, Sanaag, and Sool. Although not recognized by any government, this entity has maintained a stable existence and continues its efforts to establish a constitutional democracy, including holding municipal, parliamentary, and presidential elections.(CIA world fact Book)
    The dream of Somalis in that time was to create a greater Somalia (including: Somali-inhabited areas of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti.(Egal: The former Somali prime minster in 1969 and late president of Somaliland). After two very weak and corrupt Governments, Mohamed Siad Barre took over power in a military coup in 21.10.1969, soon after President Abdi Rashid Ali was assassinated.
    In 1977 Siad Barre launched an attack against Ethiopia claiming that Somalia want to liberate The Somali inhabited areas in Ethiopia. but eventually he lost the war. As early as 1978 Siad Barre has started to punish-(killing, arresting and confiscations) some of Somali clans because of the abortive military coup led by Colonel Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed in that year.
    In the 1980s Siad Barre had launched again an attack against the people in the northern part of Somalia (former British Somaliland) killing,arresting and taking their possessions and assets . This repression caused the establishment of the Somali National Movement (SNM in 1981) who started warfare against Siad Barre’s regime.
    After the collapse of the Siad Barre regime in 1991, the northern part of Somalia unilaterally declared itself the independent Republic of Somaliland. The territory, whose independence is not recognized by international bodies, has enjoyed relative stability. “We are not secessionist we have just made a withdrawal of our sovereignty from south Somalia. We did this because they had deceived us, they killed tens of thousands of our innocent people, they have destroyed our cities completely, and they have taken all our assets and properties. “You can see today all we have is the land of our fathers and ancestors, we love it, and so we will build it again. We are starting from the beginning again. We made a big mistake when we united with them” said Ahmed Silanyo (former SNM chairman, currently Somaliland president) in 18 may 1991.
    Somaliland is now enjoying peace and stability. Silanyo is a fourth president since its declaration as an independent state in 18 May 1991. Its political system is: presidential system (elected president&vice president), bicameral legislative (Guurtida/upper house and Wakiilada/lower house of parliament) and an independent judicial system. It has three political parties (UCID;UDUB and KULMIYE/ruling party). According to a European Union study seen by Reuters, the region (Somaliland) has substantial untapped resources of oil, coal and metals such as gold, platinum, copper, nickel and zinc. Somaliland’s 850 km (528 miles) of coastline on the Gulf of Aden also offer potential for a fisheries industry. The backbone of the economy is livestock. The total livestock in the country is estimated at 24 million. In 1998, 3.5 million heads of livestock were exported to the Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia which is the main market for the livestock export. The level of exports dropped after 1999 due to restriction imposed by Saudi Arabia which continued until 2002 when exports started rebounding and close to 2 million head of livestock were exported once again in 2008. Somaliland also exports frozen meat to the gulf countries like United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Somaliland also exports Hides, Skins, Myrrh and Frankincense in smaller scale. You can obtain additional information from SOMALILAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE website. Somaliland has now five functioning universities.
    After the collapse of the Somali central government, civil war has started in almost the whole of Somalia except Somaliland. Warlords, Islamic Courts, Alshabab and pirates were joined in battle. This can be long story which can be written in many books, but here I would like to focus on Somaliland which I think will be the next or third African new nation state, I will try to explain the reason why I think so.
    First and foremost: Somaliland is situated on the eastern horn of Africa and lies between the 08°00′ – 11°30′ parallel north of the equator and between 42°30′ – 49°00′ meridian east of Greenwich. It shares borders with the Republic of Djibouti to the west, the Federal Republic of Ethiopia to the south and Somalia to the east. Somaliland has a coastal line to the north of the country which extends 460 miles along the Red Sea The population of Somaliland is estimated at around 3.5 million. The average population growth rate is 3.1%. Population density is estimated at approximately 25 persons per sq. kilometer. (137,000.sq km). Fifty-five percent of the population is either nomadic or semi-nomadic, while 45% live in urban centers or rural towns. The average life expectancy for the male is 50 and for females it is 55. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of Somaliland)
    Somaliland, a semi-desert territory on the coast of the Gulf of Aden, declared independence after the overthrow of Somali military dictator Siad Barre in 1991.one interesting point was that the SNM (Somali national Movement) never sought revenge against clans or tribes that supported the Government during the war. Instead they invited them to negotiations and collectively made the BUROA treaty that was declared on 18 of May 1991 as the independence of Somaliland. The move followed a secessionist struggle during which Siad Barre’s forces pursued rebel guerrillas into the territory. Tens of thousands of people were killed and towns were flattened. “Though not internationally recognized, Somaliland has a working political system, government institutions, a police force and its own currency. The territory has lobbied hard to win support for its claim to be a sovereign state which is now de facto.” (BBC).
    The former British protectorate has also escaped much of the chaos and violence that plague Somalia, although attacks on Western aid workers in 2003 and 2008 raised fears that Islamic militants in the territory were targeting foreigners.
    Although there is a thriving private business sector, poverty and unemployment are widespread. The economy is highly dependent on money sent home by members of the Somaliland Diaspora. Duties from Berbera, a port used by landlocked Ethiopia, and livestock exports are important sources of revenue. Somaliland’s leaders have distanced themselves from Somalia’s central transitional government.
    Second: For a long time there has been a complete disassociation between a country’s ability to discharge its sovereign responsibilities and its claim to a sovereign status (Herbst, 1996-1997)1.
    The Republic of Somaliland was known as the Somaliland Protectorate under British rule from 1884 until June, 26th 1960 when Somaliland got its independence from Britain .In July 1st 1960 joined the former Italian Somalia to form the Somali Republic. The union did not work according to the aspirations of the people, and the strain led to a civil war from 1980s onwards and eventually to the collapse of the Somali Republic. After the collapse of the Somali Republic, the people of Somaliland held a congress in which it was decided to withdraw from the Union with Somalia and to reinstate Somaliland’s sovereignty.
    Somaliland was independent for a few days in 1960, between the end of British colonial rule and its union with the former Italian colony of Somalia. More than 40 years later voters in the territory overwhelmingly backed its self-declared independence in a 2001 referendum. “We had been absorbed by the south and the union had absolutely failed”.(Silanyo).
    The international community’s continued support to give legitimacy to a non-functioning state (SOMALIA), so as to preserve non-existing integrity is like refusing to perform an essential amputation for the sake of bodily integrity. As Herbst had argued about thirteen years previously the repeated attempts by the international community to revive Somalia’s nation-state, despite the overwhelming evidence that such a nation state has never worked nor ever will, should be replaced by recognising that a more viable state structure can better be created if what Spears (2004)2 calls ‘the polity scale problem’ in Africa is seriously taken into account. Spears, like Herbst, suggests that the emergence of Somaliland, as with its predecessor Eritrea, and the South Sudan recently, is precisely a reflection of that process of scaling down the prevailing state structures in post-colonial Africa.(M.obsiye.Dec. 2010).
    The American new policy towards Somalia(dual Track policy),with EU ministers visiting in Somaliland and red Carpet that Djibouti and Ethiopia respectively put out for welcoming the Somaliland president, are signs that international community has become tired of the myth and the nightmare of the unity of Somalia.
    It will be naïve to believe that this just started process will bring recognition of Somaliland soon. But after President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo ( He came to power in July 2010 following elections considered largely free and fair by international observers) and his Foreign Minister Dr. Mohamed Abdillahi Omar visited Ethiopia and met the Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, an official press release by the Ethiopian government ‘confirmed that Ethiopia would extend its support to Somaliland in the areas of security, peace, trade and communication, among others’. Here PM Zenawi more than ever before said that Ethiopia would play an active role in facilitating the process of searching for diplomatic recognition. But it is not only Ethiopia that diplomatically sides now with Somaliland. Djibouti appears to have changed its position too; it may not be the first country to extend full diplomatic recognition, but it has become the first country to extend a full diplomatic reception to President Ahmed (Silanyo) on his official visit to the country in early November 2010.
    Now the question arises what kind of relations does Somaliland intend to enter with its former partner of the union? The contemporary politics Somaliland stands for , one that recognises being a Somali, does not offer the prospects of political leverage in all Somali-speaking territories. A national identity does not necessarily have to be forged out of such shared commonalities. Given that states are not naturally given but politically constructed on agreed upon principles, there is no reason to doubt that people sharing common language cannot form separate nations. Djiboutians did that. It is what Spears (2004) calls ‘the absence of common national consciousnesses in addition to the polity scale problem that has plagued contemporary African nation states, with the former Republic of Somalia being a classic example. Such national consciousness has never taken root in Somali-speaking territories both during pre-colonial and after independence.( M.Obsiye)
    President Ahmed Silanyo, who has a degree from the London School of Economics and Manchester university, knows that well. In a speech on 26th November 2010 at Chatham House, London, he reiterated that the search for full political recognition is at the heart of his government. Outlining his vision of the region, he stated that they want to see peaceful Somalia. Clearly, peaceful Somalia is in everybody’s interest, not least because of the security concerns it raises, but more so because as Bryden (2004)4 argues ‘an Ethiopian-Eritrean’ solution to the Somalia-Somaliland problem might look attractive.
    According to the “ wikileaks” cable on Britain’s Africa policy, sent on 6th of February 2009 by the political counsellor Richard Mills at the US embassy in London, recognition of Somaliland should be considered in order to allow it access to international mechanisms for development and capacity support, as well as to support its democratic development in the face of increasing Islamic militant pressures.(full document will be available here: http://somalilandpress.com/wikileaksus-embassy-cables-recognition-of-somaliland-should-be-considered-19434)
    Third, during my last visit in Somaliland, June 2010. I met with dozens of Somalilanders ( as they prefer to be called) and asked them, how long could they remain without recognition from the international community? Actually most of the people I met told me that they will never go back to union with Somalia again!! A handful of them told me they would prefer unity if there is a democracy and on the condition that Somaliland could split from Somalia if Somalilanders choose so by referendum in the future.
    The Puntland area of Somalia is a relatively stable region of Somalia as well. Unlike Somaliland they have never asked recognition from the international community. Albeit it is so much weaker than Somaliland it still has some sort of rule of law. Some say Puntland is the base of pirates and in fact it is, but there is also a border dispute between Somaliland and Puntland. Sometimes there are clashes between their Ethiopian supported militaries (Ethiopia supports both sides but never incites them, but rather tries to solve their problems).
    Finally: Most of Somaliland’s new cabinet (ministers) are well educated people from USA and Europe. So they launched a new campaign to persuade the international community to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign new African nation. The Government which has now ruled for several months has made tangible improvements so far including a 100% rise in salary for all civil servants( including the Police) and military. The moral and the expectations of the people are high. In addition to that some international delegations including a Finnish one are currently visiting Somaliland.The USA and UK have already doubled their donations to Somaliland. While its expatriates are going back to their homeland which will definitely make a difference. Moreover, more than 900km long red sea water for Somaliland, pirates can hardly hunt ships and they never come to Somaliland soil peacefully.
    According to BBC’s Zeinab Badawi report during her visit to Hargeisa (Somaliland Capital) in January 2011, Somaliland has made remarkable socioeconomic development that deserved to be recognized.( http://www.somalilife.com/vbforum/showthread.php?t=91036).
    Conclusion
    Somaliland’s two decades stability, former history during and after British colony as a separate state and the nearly hopeless situation of Somalia,when we look at democratic institutions that they are developing and the fact of that they receive little support from the international community. Arithmetic of these above mentioned points are resulting in my point of view that:
    Pragmatism and flexibility rather than dogma are the solution for Somalia (an Ethiopian-Eritrean, solution for the Somalia-Somaliland problem might also look attractive. I think Somaliland is a fact that no one can deny today, and it would be pointless, in my opinion, for Somaliland to wait until Somalia has stabilize. They deserve to be supported, motivated and recognized. Somaliland is now fully fledged as an independent state. Tens of thousands from southern Somalia are now living in Somaliland as refugee, but the UN is saying that they are IDP(internal displaced People) while Somaliland is claiming that they are refugees from Somalia, so that the UN should support them and recognize as refugees from another country. Result is that no one supports them. As we can see what is going on in the Arab world, dramatic and radical changes taking place many parts in the world and no one can predict what the outcome would be. Somaliland should not be lost to what they had been resisting for alone in two decades.
    Mr Silanyo believes that a “yes” vote on independence in South Sudan, along with a peaceful aftermath could pave the way for official status for his country. Regardless, he will have many obstacles to overcome, as the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Conference, the United Nations and African Union all stated their preference for maintaining the existing Somali borders.
    However, in 2005, AU mission visited Somaliland and in their report recommended the consideration for recognising Somaliland’s independence. The AU’s apparent frustration at the lack of progress in Somalia more generally could well prejudice the organisation towards supporting the breakaway region.
    Look at their latest presidential elections in which many international observers acknowledged as Fair and Free elections. Unlike Cote de ivoir and many other African countries the incumbent president of Somaliland during that time had transferred the power in a well organized ceremony to his successor.
    Following a visit to Somaliland – the first ever by a British Cabinet Minister – International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell announced that more must be done to improve conditions for the people on the ground if security is to improve and the country stopped from being a source of threat to the UK. Speaking on his return from Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, Mr Mitchell said: “Over half of Britain’s development aid in Somalia will be directed at Somaliland, a more stable self-governing region. It is hoped further progress made possible by the UK taxpayer could help improve stability across the whole country and region”.
    Mr. Soren Pind, Minister for Development Cooperation of Denmark visited Oct 2011 in the capital of Somaliland, Hargeisa. Minister Pind who was leading a Danish delegate met with Somaliland President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamud at Mansoor hotel where they had a closed door meeting. This was the first time that Somaliland and the government of Denmark has had a such a high level direct talk and this is seen as a positive step in Somaliland. Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has visited Hargeisa Feb this year (2011) as well. The Deputy-Minister’s visit to Hargeisa represented the first-ever Norwegian official visit to the non-recognised state of Somaliland. Mr Eide met with Somaliland President Ahmed Mahamoud Silanyo and a large number of Ministers and dignitaries. All these tendencies and the implications are enlightening how the west may change their mind towards the myth of Somali unity.
    Somaliland is currently a good news story in contrast to the failed state of Somalia, whose transitional federal government, supported internationally, has totally failed to control the al-Shabab jihadi terrorists who brutally impose Sharia law on the people or to defeat the scourge of piracy based on its territory and neighbouring Puntland. In support of independence, a 2005 African Union report pointed out that the union in 1960 between Somaliland and Somalia was never formally ratified. Excitingly on July 9 South Sudan will become an independent new state and the Juba government has already stated it will recognise a sovereign Somaliland. In all probability this will result in other AU countries following suit.An independent Somaliland could be a force for stability and good governance in the Horn of Africa. It is high time the AU and western powers recognised the sovereignty of the republic of Somaliland, which has all-party support under the government of President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo, which resulted from free and fair elections. MEP Charles Tannock (Financial Times, 23 feb.2011.)
    To end this essay I would like to say, Somalia needs a change and the change should have to recognize Somaliland, and the time of the change is now.
    Sources
    Since there is quite difficult to get reliable academic literature about Somalia, I have read a lot of articles written by local and international media on Somalia. It has taken more time to distil the ideas contained in it. Ideas have been borrowed from different sources, and some of them may now be difficult to trace or recognize in their original form.I will try my best to mention most of those different sources.
    (Gvosdev 2011)http://www.npr.org/2011/02/24/134031633/No-Easy-Solutions-To-Somali-Piracy-Threat.
    http://www.somalilandchamber.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1
    http://www.somalilandgov.com/
    (Herbst, 1996-1997) http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2010/Dec/Obsiye/02_The_Changing_Political_landscape_in_the_Horn_of_Africa.html.
    (M.obsiye.Dec. 2010). http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2010/Dec/Obsiye/02_The_Changing_Political_landscape_in_the_Horn_of_Africa.html.

    (Silanyo) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10485613.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY_WchMoOHY
    (Egal) http://forgottendiaries-ethiopia.blogspot.com/2009/05/political-legacy-of-mohamed-ibrahim.html. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/117722/Muhammad-Ibrahim-Egal. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JIO4MsK9SI.
    Somaliland foreign ministry. http://somalilandforeign.net
    (BBC) http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/3794847.stm
    (CIA fact Book). https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/so.html
    MEP Charles Tannock ( Financial Times, 23 feb.2011.) http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/174cc918-3edb-11e0-834e-00144feabdc0.html#axzz1IZSmwAvy.

  72. This is how Somaliland decision makers exercise their legitimate power over the electorate. In other words, this is what Somalia needs to learn from Somaliland. Look at this:
    The joint parliamentary session was held Sunday in Somaliland’s capital of Hargeisa and attended by 109 MPs from the elected House of Representatives and the nominated House of Elders (Guurti). The session, chaired by the Speaker Abdirahman Mohamed Irro of Somaliland’s House of Representatives, discussed two major issues: Somaliland’s attendance at the London conference and revision to a Somaliland law which prohibited participation at Somalia conferences.

    Somaliland Foreign Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Omar addressed the joint session of parliament and argued strongly in favor of Somaliland’s attendance at the upcoming International Conference on Somalia, hosted by the UK Government in London on 23 February 2012, where UK officials expect the attendance of world leaders and diplomats from over 50 countries.

    Speaker Irro told the parliamentarians that Somaliland President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo addressed parliament earlier. “Today you have heard the Foreign Minister expressed that the administration has engaged in wide consultation regarding the London conference,” said the Speaker.

    Continuing, Speaker Irro said: “There are two issues here: one issue is a prior law banning Somaliland participation at Somalia conferences, as it has become vitally important that we protect our statehood while simultaneously protecting our interests, and so there is a proposal to amend that law as the administration finds our Somaliland’s interest in attending the London conference on Somalia.”

    The Somaliland MPs from both houses of parliament voted thereafter, with 101 MPs voting in favor of Somaliland’s attendance at the London conference, while 3 MPs rejected and 4 MPs abstained, and the Speaker did not vote. The law passed in favor of Somaliland’s attendance at the London conference on Somalia, parliamentary leaders declared.

    1. Ahmed,

      Can you tell us what proportion of the 109 MPs and Guurti that you speak of with S-land pride are Isaaq and what proportion are the Dulbahante, Gadabursi and Issa? Once, you are able to look behind these “numbers” you will see that this absolutely not the path for which Somalia is to follow. It is authoritarian at its core and defeats the whole puporse and goal of a united, inclusive Somali nationalism. I can smell the stench behind the S-land curtain.

  73. hello Mr. Ambassador.
    Here is very good example of the current situation in Somalia. So, I hope you would read it carefully.
    I would like to thank you in advance for your efforts and time.
    South Sudan is the newest country in the world. After the agreement in 2005 between Khartoum and SPLA, south Sudan started to prepare for referendum of its people. The referendum was promised in a 2005 peace agreement that ended more than two decades of conflict between the Christian-dominated south and the mainly Arab Muslim north.
    A referendum on independence for Southern Sudan was held on 9–15 January 2011. Preliminary results released by the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission on 30 January 2011 indicate that 98% of voters selected the “separation” option, with 1% selecting “unity”. The final results were announced on 7 February with 98.83% of the electorate opting for secession. Southern Sudan is expected to become an independent country on July 9.2011.
    Pro-independence movements across the continent have lined up to praise the referendum and cite it as a model to follow. Somaliland, a region of Somalia that has declared independence and ruled itself for two decades, sees the referendum as a model for how to win international legitimacy, said its minister for foreign affairs, Mohamed Abdillahi. “The question for Somaliland is to get recognition. I think if south Sudan gets recognition through this referendum, I hope that will open the way for Somaliland.”(Reuters). Another item we may begin to look at – and the situation is changing because of what’s happening in Sudan.
    “With South Sudan separating from North Sudan, that removes perhaps some of the reluctance we’ve had up to this point to countenance the division of Somalia itself into smaller, more sustainable entities which could, in fact, exercise greater control over their coastline, provide more opportunities for their citizens. So I’m thinking specifically here of Somaliland. Up to this point, U.S. policy, EU policy has been to try to create a functional, central government for Somalia to control the entire country. We may now be moving to a situation where we move away from that and accept the reality that a unified Somalia is not possible. So let’s try to at least narrow the areas of ungoverned space in Somalia, make it more manageable by recognizing some of these other states that have risen on Somali territory.” (Gvosdev 2011)
    But another question is, who will be the next country after South Sudan? To answer this question, I would like to select Somalia as the most likely country which could split up in the near future.
    Background
    Somalia was created in 1960 when the former British Somaliland united with the former Somali Italian colony. Since then its development has been slow. Relations with neighbors have been soured by their territorial claims on Somali-inhabited areas of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti.
    Britain withdrew from British Somaliland in 1960 to allow its protectorate to join with Italian Somaliland and form the new nation of Somalia. In 1969, a coup headed by Mohamed SIAD Barre ushered in an authoritarian socialist rule characterized by the persecution, jailing and torture of political opponents and dissidents. After the regime’s collapse early in 1991, Somalia descended into turmoil, factional fighting, and anarchy. In May 1991, the northern clans declared an independent Republic of Somaliland that now includes the administrative regions of Awdal, Woqooyi Galbeed, Togdheer, Sanaag, and Sool. Although not recognized by any government, this entity has maintained a stable existence and continues its efforts to establish a constitutional democracy, including holding municipal, parliamentary, and presidential elections.(CIA world fact Book)
    The dream of Somalis in that time was to create a greater Somalia (including: Somali-inhabited areas of Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti.(Egal: The former Somali prime minster in 1969 and late president of Somaliland). After two very weak and corrupt Governments, Mohamed Siad Barre took over power in a military coup in 21.10.1969, soon after President Abdi Rashid Ali was assassinated.
    In 1977 Siad Barre launched an attack against Ethiopia claiming that Somalia want to liberate The Somali inhabited areas in Ethiopia. but eventually he lost the war. As early as 1978 Siad Barre has started to punish-(killing, arresting and confiscations) some of Somali clans because of the abortive military coup led by Colonel Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed in that year.
    In the 1980s Siad Barre had launched again an attack against the people in the northern part of Somalia (former British Somaliland) killing,arresting and taking their possessions and assets . This repression caused the establishment of the Somali National Movement (SNM in 1981) who started warfare against Siad Barre’s regime.
    After the collapse of the Siad Barre regime in 1991, the northern part of Somalia unilaterally declared itself the independent Republic of Somaliland. The territory, whose independence is not recognized by international bodies, has enjoyed relative stability. “We are not secessionist we have just made a withdrawal of our sovereignty from south Somalia. We did this because they had deceived us, they killed tens of thousands of our innocent people, they have destroyed our cities completely, and they have taken all our assets and properties. “You can see today all we have is the land of our fathers and ancestors, we love it, and so we will build it again. We are starting from the beginning again. We made a big mistake when we united with them” said Ahmed Silanyo (former SNM chairman, currently Somaliland president) in 18 may 1991.
    Somaliland is now enjoying peace and stability. Silanyo is a fourth president since its declaration as an independent state in 18 May 1991. Its political system is: presidential system (elected president&vice president), bicameral legislative (Guurtida/upper house and Wakiilada/lower house of parliament) and an independent judicial system. It has three political parties (UCID;UDUB and KULMIYE/ruling party). According to a European Union study seen by Reuters, the region (Somaliland) has substantial untapped resources of oil, coal and metals such as gold, platinum, copper, nickel and zinc. Somaliland’s 850 km (528 miles) of coastline on the Gulf of Aden also offer potential for a fisheries industry. The backbone of the economy is livestock. The total livestock in the country is estimated at 24 million. In 1998, 3.5 million heads of livestock were exported to the Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia which is the main market for the livestock export. The level of exports dropped after 1999 due to restriction imposed by Saudi Arabia which continued until 2002 when exports started rebounding and close to 2 million head of livestock were exported once again in 2008. Somaliland also exports frozen meat to the gulf countries like United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Somaliland also exports Hides, Skins, Myrrh and Frankincense in smaller scale. You can obtain additional information from SOMALILAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE website. Somaliland has now five functioning universities.
    After the collapse of the Somali central government, civil war has started in almost the whole of Somalia except Somaliland. Warlords, Islamic Courts, Alshabab and pirates were joined in battle. This can be long story which can be written in many books, but here I would like to focus on Somaliland which I think will be the next or third African new nation state, I will try to explain the reason why I think so.
    First and foremost: Somaliland is situated on the eastern horn of Africa and lies between the 08°00′ – 11°30′ parallel north of the equator and between 42°30′ – 49°00′ meridian east of Greenwich. It shares borders with the Republic of Djibouti to the west, the Federal Republic of Ethiopia to the south and Somalia to the east. Somaliland has a coastal line to the north of the country which extends 460 miles along the Red Sea The population of Somaliland is estimated at around 3.5 million. The average population growth rate is 3.1%. Population density is estimated at approximately 25 persons per sq. kilometer. (137,000.sq km). Fifty-five percent of the population is either nomadic or semi-nomadic, while 45% live in urban centers or rural towns. The average life expectancy for the male is 50 and for females it is 55. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of Somaliland)
    Somaliland, a semi-desert territory on the coast of the Gulf of Aden, declared independence after the overthrow of Somali military dictator Siad Barre in 1991.one interesting point was that the SNM (Somali national Movement) never sought revenge against clans or tribes that supported the Government during the war. Instead they invited them to negotiations and collectively made the BUROA treaty that was declared on 18 of May 1991 as the independence of Somaliland. The move followed a secessionist struggle during which Siad Barre’s forces pursued rebel guerrillas into the territory. Tens of thousands of people were killed and towns were flattened. “Though not internationally recognized, Somaliland has a working political system, government institutions, a police force and its own currency. The territory has lobbied hard to win support for its claim to be a sovereign state which is now de facto.” (BBC).
    The former British protectorate has also escaped much of the chaos and violence that plague Somalia, although attacks on Western aid workers in 2003 and 2008 raised fears that Islamic militants in the territory were targeting foreigners.
    Although there is a thriving private business sector, poverty and unemployment are widespread. The economy is highly dependent on money sent home by members of the Somaliland Diaspora. Duties from Berbera, a port used by landlocked Ethiopia, and livestock exports are important sources of revenue. Somaliland’s leaders have distanced themselves from Somalia’s central transitional government.
    Second: For a long time there has been a complete disassociation between a country’s ability to discharge its sovereign responsibilities and its claim to a sovereign status (Herbst, 1996-1997)1.
    The Republic of Somaliland was known as the Somaliland Protectorate under British rule from 1884 until June, 26th 1960 when Somaliland got its independence from Britain .In July 1st 1960 joined the former Italian Somalia to form the Somali Republic. The union did not work according to the aspirations of the people, and the strain led to a civil war from 1980s onwards and eventually to the collapse of the Somali Republic. After the collapse of the Somali Republic, the people of Somaliland held a congress in which it was decided to withdraw from the Union with Somalia and to reinstate Somaliland’s sovereignty.
    Somaliland was independent for a few days in 1960, between the end of British colonial rule and its union with the former Italian colony of Somalia. More than 40 years later voters in the territory overwhelmingly backed its self-declared independence in a 2001 referendum. “We had been absorbed by the south and the union had absolutely failed”.(Silanyo).
    The international community’s continued support to give legitimacy to a non-functioning state (SOMALIA), so as to preserve non-existing integrity is like refusing to perform an essential amputation for the sake of bodily integrity. As Herbst had argued about thirteen years previously the repeated attempts by the international community to revive Somalia’s nation-state, despite the overwhelming evidence that such a nation state has never worked nor ever will, should be replaced by recognising that a more viable state structure can better be created if what Spears (2004)2 calls ‘the polity scale problem’ in Africa is seriously taken into account. Spears, like Herbst, suggests that the emergence of Somaliland, as with its predecessor Eritrea, and the South Sudan recently, is precisely a reflection of that process of scaling down the prevailing state structures in post-colonial Africa.(M.obsiye.Dec. 2010).
    The American new policy towards Somalia(dual Track policy),with EU ministers visiting in Somaliland and red Carpet that Djibouti and Ethiopia respectively put out for welcoming the Somaliland president, are signs that international community has become tired of the myth and the nightmare of the unity of Somalia.
    It will be naïve to believe that this just started process will bring recognition of Somaliland soon. But after President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo ( He came to power in July 2010 following elections considered largely free and fair by international observers) and his Foreign Minister Dr. Mohamed Abdillahi Omar visited Ethiopia and met the Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, an official press release by the Ethiopian government ‘confirmed that Ethiopia would extend its support to Somaliland in the areas of security, peace, trade and communication, among others’. Here PM Zenawi more than ever before said that Ethiopia would play an active role in facilitating the process of searching for diplomatic recognition. But it is not only Ethiopia that diplomatically sides now with Somaliland. Djibouti appears to have changed its position too; it may not be the first country to extend full diplomatic recognition, but it has become the first country to extend a full diplomatic reception to President Ahmed (Silanyo) on his official visit to the country in early November 2010.
    Now the question arises what kind of relations does Somaliland intend to enter with its former partner of the union? The contemporary politics Somaliland stands for , one that recognises being a Somali, does not offer the prospects of political leverage in all Somali-speaking territories. A national identity does not necessarily have to be forged out of such shared commonalities. Given that states are not naturally given but politically constructed on agreed upon principles, there is no reason to doubt that people sharing common language cannot form separate nations. Djiboutians did that. It is what Spears (2004) calls ‘the absence of common national consciousnesses in addition to the polity scale problem that has plagued contemporary African nation states, with the former Republic of Somalia being a classic example. Such national consciousness has never taken root in Somali-speaking territories both during pre-colonial and after independence.( M.Obsiye)
    President Ahmed Silanyo, who has a degree from the London School of Economics and Manchester university, knows that well. In a speech on 26th November 2010 at Chatham House, London, he reiterated that the search for full political recognition is at the heart of his government. Outlining his vision of the region, he stated that they want to see peaceful Somalia. Clearly, peaceful Somalia is in everybody’s interest, not least because of the security concerns it raises, but more so because as Bryden (2004)4 argues ‘an Ethiopian-Eritrean’ solution to the Somalia-Somaliland problem might look attractive.
    According to the “ wikileaks” cable on Britain’s Africa policy, sent on 6th of February 2009 by the political counsellor Richard Mills at the US embassy in London, recognition of Somaliland should be considered in order to allow it access to international mechanisms for development and capacity support, as well as to support its democratic development in the face of increasing Islamic militant pressures.(full document will be available here: http://somalilandpress.com/wikileaksus-embassy-cables-recognition-of-somaliland-should-be-considered-19434)
    Third, during my last visit in Somaliland, June 2010. I met with dozens of Somalilanders ( as they prefer to be called) and asked them, how long could they remain without recognition from the international community? Actually most of the people I met told me that they will never go back to union with Somalia again!! A handful of them told me they would prefer unity if there is a democracy and on the condition that Somaliland could split from Somalia if Somalilanders choose so by referendum in the future.
    The Puntland area of Somalia is a relatively stable region of Somalia as well. Unlike Somaliland they have never asked recognition from the international community. Albeit it is so much weaker than Somaliland it still has some sort of rule of law. Some say Puntland is the base of pirates and in fact it is, but there is also a border dispute between Somaliland and Puntland. Sometimes there are clashes between their Ethiopian supported militaries (Ethiopia supports both sides but never incites them, but rather tries to solve their problems).
    Finally: Most of Somaliland’s new cabinet (ministers) are well educated people from USA and Europe. So they launched a new campaign to persuade the international community to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign new African nation. The Government which has now ruled for several months has made tangible improvements so far including a 100% rise in salary for all civil servants( including the Police) and military. The moral and the expectations of the people are high. In addition to that some international delegations including a Finnish one are currently visiting Somaliland.The USA and UK have already doubled their donations to Somaliland. While its expatriates are going back to their homeland which will definitely make a difference. Moreover, more than 900km long red sea water for Somaliland, pirates can hardly hunt ships and they never come to Somaliland soil peacefully.
    According to BBC’s Zeinab Badawi report during her visit to Hargeisa (Somaliland Capital) in January 2011, Somaliland has made remarkable socioeconomic development that deserved to be recognized.( http://www.somalilife.com/vbforum/showthread.php?t=91036).
    Conclusion
    Somaliland’s two decades stability, former history during and after British colony as a separate state and the nearly hopeless situation of Somalia,when we look at democratic institutions that they are developing and the fact of that they receive little support from the international community. Arithmetic of these above mentioned points are resulting in my point of view that:
    Pragmatism and flexibility rather than dogma are the solution for Somalia (an Ethiopian-Eritrean, solution for the Somalia-Somaliland problem might also look attractive. I think Somaliland is a fact that no one can deny today, and it would be pointless, in my opinion, for Somaliland to wait until Somalia has stabilize. They deserve to be supported, motivated and recognized. Somaliland is now fully fledged as an independent state. Tens of thousands from southern Somalia are now living in Somaliland as refugee, but the UN is saying that they are IDP(internal displaced People) while Somaliland is claiming that they are refugees from Somalia, so that the UN should support them and recognize as refugees from another country. Result is that no one supports them. As we can see what is going on in the Arab world, dramatic and radical changes taking place many parts in the world and no one can predict what the outcome would be. Somaliland should not be lost to what they had been resisting for alone in two decades.
    Mr Silanyo believes that a “yes” vote on independence in South Sudan, along with a peaceful aftermath could pave the way for official status for his country. Regardless, he will have many obstacles to overcome, as the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Conference, the United Nations and African Union all stated their preference for maintaining the existing Somali borders.
    However, in 2005, AU mission visited Somaliland and in their report recommended the consideration for recognising Somaliland’s independence. The AU’s apparent frustration at the lack of progress in Somalia more generally could well prejudice the organisation towards supporting the breakaway region.
    Look at their latest presidential elections in which many international observers acknowledged as Fair and Free elections. Unlike Cote de ivoir and many other African countries the incumbent president of Somaliland during that time had transferred the power in a well organized ceremony to his successor.
    Following a visit to Somaliland – the first ever by a British Cabinet Minister – International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell announced that more must be done to improve conditions for the people on the ground if security is to improve and the country stopped from being a source of threat to the UK. Speaking on his return from Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, Mr Mitchell said: “Over half of Britain’s development aid in Somalia will be directed at Somaliland, a more stable self-governing region. It is hoped further progress made possible by the UK taxpayer could help improve stability across the whole country and region”.
    Mr. Soren Pind, Minister for Development Cooperation of Denmark visited Oct 2011 in the capital of Somaliland, Hargeisa. Minister Pind who was leading a Danish delegate met with Somaliland President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamud at Mansoor hotel where they had a closed door meeting. This was the first time that Somaliland and the government of Denmark has had a such a high level direct talk and this is seen as a positive step in Somaliland. Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has visited Hargeisa Feb this year (2011) as well. The Deputy-Minister’s visit to Hargeisa represented the first-ever Norwegian official visit to the non-recognised state of Somaliland. Mr Eide met with Somaliland President Ahmed Mahamoud Silanyo and a large number of Ministers and dignitaries. All these tendencies and the implications are enlightening how the west may change their mind towards the myth of Somali unity.
    Somaliland is currently a good news story in contrast to the failed state of Somalia, whose transitional federal government, supported internationally, has totally failed to control the al-Shabab jihadi terrorists who brutally impose Sharia law on the people or to defeat the scourge of piracy based on its territory and neighbouring Puntland. In support of independence, a 2005 African Union report pointed out that the union in 1960 between Somaliland and Somalia was never formally ratified. Excitingly on July 9 South Sudan will become an independent new state and the Juba government has already stated it will recognise a sovereign Somaliland. In all probability this will result in other AU countries following suit.An independent Somaliland could be a force for stability and good governance in the Horn of Africa. It is high time the AU and western powers recognised the sovereignty of the republic of Somaliland, which has all-party support under the government of President Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo, which resulted from free and fair elections. MEP Charles Tannock (Financial Times, 23 feb.2011.)
    To end this essay I would like to say, Somalia needs a change and the change should have to recognize Somaliland, and the time of the change is now.
    Sources
    Since there is quite difficult to get reliable academic literature about Somalia, I have read a lot of articles written by local and international media on Somalia. It has taken more time to distil the ideas contained in it. Ideas have been borrowed from different sources, and some of them may now be difficult to trace or recognize in their original form.I will try my best to mention most of those different sources.
    (Gvosdev 2011)http://www.npr.org/2011/02/24/134031633/No-Easy-Solutions-To-Somali-Piracy-Threat.
    http://www.somalilandchamber.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1
    http://www.somalilandgov.com/
    (Herbst, 1996-1997) http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2010/Dec/Obsiye/02_The_Changing_Political_landscape_in_the_Horn_of_Africa.html.
    (M.obsiye.Dec. 2010). http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2010/Dec/Obsiye/02_The_Changing_Political_landscape_in_the_Horn_of_Africa.html.

    (Silanyo) http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/10485613.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY_WchMoOHY
    (Egal) http://forgottendiaries-ethiopia.blogspot.com/2009/05/political-legacy-of-mohamed-ibrahim.html. http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/117722/Muhammad-Ibrahim-Egal. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JIO4MsK9SI.
    Somaliland foreign ministry. http://somalilandforeign.net
    (BBC) http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/country_profiles/3794847.stm
    (CIA fact Book). https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/so.html
    MEP Charles Tannock ( Financial Times, 23 feb.2011.) http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/174cc918-3edb-11e0-834e-00144feabdc0.html#axzz1IZSmwAvy.

  74. London Conference Recommendation:

    The current new roadmap calls for ending the transitional political arrangement, however the recently concluded Garrowah meeting which was scheduled to formally do so has produced another four years of transitional period and institutions which is unacceptable and will not be accepted by the Somali people. Somali people are not looking for another transitional period they want a recognised government which is a sovereign state and still has all of it territories. The announcement of the London Conference comes in the midst of this confusion within the Somali political arena.

    My understanding of the aim of the London Conference is to “pull together international effort” in order to make sure that the current international effort in Somalia and the Somalia peace process succeed according to the U.K. government. However due to this fact the conference has spurred the interest of the Somali people all over the world. Many hope that this conference may offer a new direction and bring an end of two decades of failed international policy. Others are sceptical and are worried that the U.K. is not driven by generosity and has its own selfish agenda. However, the Somali people are better positioned this time as there is genuine will to transcend the tribal politics that has undermined the state sovereignty and the unity among the people for the past two decades. The London Conference should capitalize this goodwill and move to:

    a. Provide guiding principles, or terms of reference to make this conference more transparent, so far as the Somalis are concerned, they are suspicious of this conference due to its secrecy and lack of
    transparency.

    b. Have a clear detailed consultation framework at the outset; the fact that this conference will address agendas set by outsider with no clear framework will only complicate its outcome.

    c. Provide clarity of what an end result would look like. The government of UK can only facilitate but let Somalis decide the best approach to address the Somali conundrum. Somalis and other participants of conference have common objectives to address security, terrorism and piracy; it is in the best interest of all to address a common problem collectively.

    d. Make the Conference a two round process to develop ideas and refine them; let this be a brainstorming exercise and set up another conference inside Somalia. It is illogical to be holding conferences outside of Somalia while addressing security problems pertaining to Somalia. A serious action plan to address piracy and terrorism needs to be inside Somalia and supported by the Somali people inside the country.

    e. We have a rare opportunity to bring together the leaders of both North and South of Somalia. This genuine opportunity was without a doubt the hard work Britain and International community that urged both parties to attend London Conference. This rare opportunity can not be wasted or overlooked. Both parties must have dialog if they were to come to this conference. The conference organizers must urge both parties to talk as there is no loss but gain from this rare meeting. Britain and International Community need to mediate the talks between Somaliland political representative and Somalia. This discussion should be open, fair, honest and to the point. Somali and Somaliland must address their differences, concerns and how they need to co-operate in the future. There must be a dialog between the two parties. They must draw up a plan for peace and reconciliation. They must agree on Road-Map between the two people. Present their conclusion and findings to the reset of Somali populace. Continue deeper discussions both in Mogadishu and Hargeisa cities.
    We need Britain and International Community to Apply the Turkish model, the United Nations’ Somalia agencies in Nairobi, Kenya should move inside Somalia with a robust comprehensive international approach to the political conflict in Somalia that addresses Somalia as a sovereign state. Working with the Somali people and rejecting extremists who advocate for the balkanization of Somalia, while also assisting the Somali people to rebuild the country. Re-branding the failed timid, band-aid measures will only keep Somalia weak and unstable. It is time for bold action for both the Somali people and the international community. It is time to strengthen the Somali judiciary and security forces to restore the confidence and trust of the Somali people.

    Finally any outcome must make sure that Somali Republic sovereignty and territorial integrity is maintained and individual freedom and choice are guaranteed anything less is considered as failed process and complete waste of time.

  75. Dear Matt
    Congratulation for your post as the ambassador of Somalia.

    The London conference should support Somali people of all regions to support the unity of the Somali and recognise the need to support the regional states and local governments elected by the people of each region.

    Khaatumo State of Somalia represents the people in parts of Sool Sanaag Cayn regions, by supporting this local government long lasting peace and resolution can be found among the people in Northern Somalia.

    We must not also forget all those supporting the Awdal State of Somalia and the progressive efforts made by the president of Awdal State of Somalia (see http://www.awdalstate.com).

    Unity, peace and progress can only be reached by supporting grass-root initiatives of the people of all regions of Somalia:

    Please note the increasing support of the Khaatumo State of Somalia both on the ground and internationally (see http://www.facebook.com/pages/Khaatumo-State-of-Somalia-SSC-4-Life/143052335810286).

    Khaatumo State of Somalia stands for peace and unity, its the key to the development and progress of the regions in Northwest Somalia (Sool Sanaag Cayn regions).

    I hope you look into the local government of Khaatumo State of Somalia and understand their initiative as one supporting the TFG and the international community.

    Thanks
    Idil

  76. Hello All,
    Reading about half of the posts here made me feel as if we were in a maqaaxi – somali word for tea shop or cafeteria – …
    We really like to debate on every thing even on thing we don’t know …
    Always there is a second and third story of an event regardless whether it is true or not the important thing is it believable or not… oky if that is the case then i will try to make my case ..
    The British (gov’t and ppl) should respect and support the full independence of the Republic of Somaliland because of one good reason… Our ancestors fought the second world war along side the British and that itself is an expensive cost our ancestors paid for the British Crown so that one day Britain could pay back and honor those ppl … as i saw pictures of Somaliland soldiers fighting under the flag of the British Somaliland Protectorate at that time was so powerful that i felt like today we need the British to stand with us as we our ancestors did before.
    I rest my case 🙂
    thanks
    Abdiqani

    1. Dear,
      Abdiqani ”The Progressed state of somaliland has Moved forward Witout much Economic and Political support From the ”proclaimed Developed states ” U are Completely Wright For ur ” somaliland’s position During the world wars ,and no doubt that no body can’not thwart our” nation hood ”storms.

  77. Ethiopian-Eritrean’ solution/South and North of Sudan to the Somalia-Somaliland problem might look attractive.

    The international community’s continued support to give legitimacy to a non-functioning state (SOMALIA), so as to preserve non-existing integrity is like refusing to perform an essential amputation for the sake of bodily integrity. As Herbst had argued about thirteen years previously the repeated attempts by the international community to revive Somalia’s nation-state, despite the overwhelming evidence that such a nation state has never worked nor ever will, should be replaced by recognising that a more viable state structure can better be created if what Spears (2004)2 calls ‘the polity scale problem’ in Africa is seriously taken into account. Spears, like Herbst, suggests that the emergence of Somaliland, as with its predecessor Eritrea, and the South Sudan recently, is precisely a reflection of that process of scaling down the prevailing state structures in post-colonial Africa.(M.obsiye.Dec. 2010).
    The American new policy towards Somalia(dual Track policy),with EU ministers visiting in Somaliland and red Carpet that Djibouti and Ethiopia respectively put out for welcoming the Somaliland president, are signs that international community has become tired of the myth and the nightmare of the unity of Somalia.

    Now the question arises what kind of relations does Somaliland intend to enter with its former partner of the union? The contemporary politics Somaliland stands for , one that recognises being a Somali, does not offer the prospects of political leverage in all Somali-speaking territories. A national identity does not necessarily have to be forged out of such shared commonalities. Given that states are not naturally given but politically constructed on agreed upon principles, there is no reason to doubt that people sharing common language cannot form separate nations. Djiboutians did that. It is what Spears (2004) calls ‘the absence of common national consciousnesses in addition to the polity scale problem that has plagued contemporary African nation states, with the former Republic of Somalia being a classic example. Such national consciousness has never taken root in Somali-speaking territories both during pre-colonial and after independence.( M.Obsiye)

    President Ahmed Silanyo, who has a degree from the London School of Economics and Manchester university, knows that well. In a speech on 26th November 2010 at Chatham House, London, he reiterated that the search for full political recognition is at the heart of his government. Outlining his vision of the region, he stated that they want to see peaceful Somalia. Clearly, peaceful Somalia is in everybody’s interest, not least because of the security concerns it raises, but more so because as Bryden (2004)4 argues ‘an Ethiopian-Eritrean’ solution to the Somalia-Somaliland problem might look attractive.

    Conclusion
    Somaliland’s two decades stability, former history during and after British colony as a separate state and the nearly hopeless situation of Somalia,when we look at democratic institutions that they are developing and the fact of that they receive little support from the international community. Arithmetic of these above mentioned points are resulting in my point of view that:
    Pragmatism and flexibility rather than dogma are the solution for Somalia (an Ethiopian-Eritrean, solution for the Somalia-Somaliland problem might also look attractive. I think Somaliland is a fact that no one can deny today, and it would be pointless, in my opinion, for Somaliland to wait until Somalia has stabilize. They deserve to be supported, motivated and recognized. Somaliland is now fully fledged as an independent state. Tens of thousands from southern Somalia are now living in Somaliland as refugee, but the UN is saying that they are IDP(internal displaced People) while Somaliland is claiming that they are refugees from Somalia, so that the UN should support them and recognize as refugees from another country.

    To end this essay I would like to say, Somalia needs a change and the change should have to recognize Somaliland, and the time of the change is now.

  78. Since the collapse of the last functioning government in Somalia in 1991, which resulted the disintegration of the law and order because of the power straggle between warlords – specifically those that were in the capital city of the country – there have been so many attempts by the international community in ending the anarchy and the chaos situation of this failed state. The people of that nation suffered far more than any other in the modern history. So many regional, continental and international bodies arranged national reconciliation by inviting the opposing sides to a table talk each of them(the organizers) trying to end the conflict by possibly bringing its or their dream model of government to be installed in Mogadishu and back up its existence by any means necessary. Each time the outcome was so called power sharing federal transitional government which is imported only to fail before the outside pusher’s eyes. With all the support governments of that type got from the world, none had secured the support of the major warlords existed in the South. No single internationally backed government managed to gain the confidence of the public or was capable of stabilizing the capital city, Mogadishu. The current one that has the military support of the AMISOM with mighty Ethiopian troops, Kenya and the backing of the most powerful nations does not seem to be working.

    One undeniable example is that of Republic of Somaliland which is unrecognized and undisputedly effective government in the north is beyond any doubt an administration that is accountable for its people. Because they lacked the attention and the outside intervention that, in my opinion, spoiled the Southern Somalia and exasperated socio-political dispute that destroyed Somalia beyond repair. Some noted that “Somaliland has made notable progress in building peace, security and constitutional democracy within its de facto borders. Hundreds of thousands of refugees and internally displaced people have returned home, tens of thousands of landmines have been removed and destroyed, and clan militias have been integrated into unified police and military forces. A multi-party political system and successive competitive elections have established Somaliland as a rarity in the Horn of Africa and the Muslim world. However, the TFG continues strongly to oppose Somaliland independence.” Somaliland people’s kind are not rare in the Horn of Africa and Muslim world, in my view, but its system is rare because it has been build with unique experience adopted by the people of Somaliland on cultural and traditional rules that has been designed to be compatible with modern one-man-one-vote democratic political arrangement. There is freedom of the press and the highest government office is publicly contested in fair ground. Its constitution defiantly states that it is based on Islamic shariah. The words that say: “There is no God but Allah and Mohamed is His messenger” is printed on its national flag. They yet have proven free and conservative Muslim society is not the enemy of its neighbours, the world, the west and UK, but can be friend. The solution of Somalia is number one, in the world to rewarding Somaliland for its efforts and credibility with recognition and number two let Somalia take its natural course and eventually create their government inside Somalia.
    The issue of recognising Somaliland is commissioned to African Union of which fact finding delegations confirmed that Somaliland’s has met all the requirements of modern statehood and has been steadily laying the foundation of a free constitutional democracy for as long as it re-instated its independence in 1991. It was the result of the African Union’s fact finding mission in Somaliland during the period that stretched April 30 and may 4 of 2005. They strongly recommended recognition and clearly stated that this will not violate the AU’s charter since Somaliland administration is only limited to the colonial border that former British protectorate shared with the Italian colony of Somalia.
    That proposed status is based on the recognition by the Somalilanders of the inherited colonial borders at the time of independence from Britain in June 1960. There is one other amazing thing is that the Somaliland administration never intervenes any of its neighbour’s political processes including Somalia. It has never sided with any of the groups that are fighting in the chaotic Somalia and once offered to mediate the rivals by inviting them in Somaliland capital, Hargeisa or any in other city, since they understand their problems more than any other, with one condition of recognising Somaliland’s legitimacy as a sovereign nation. On 26th June 2010, Somaliland held its latest presidential election and both international and domestic observers, including America’s International Republican Institute (IRA), confirmed the election as fair and free. Peter Pham’s article, “The Tale of the two Somalis”, mentions that according to their observers the election was that of the first world standard in terms of transparency and fairness but also unique in Africa. He continued noting that I quoted as it was simply put by him as following paragraph.

    This judgment was reinforced when, five days after the polls closed, the NEC announced that Silanyo, a British-educated economist who was leader in the SNM from 1984 to 1990, during the decisive phase of the struggle against the Siyad Barre dictatorship, and subsequently served as Somaliland’s minister of planning and coordination under President Egal in the 1990s, won the first-past-the-post contest with 49.59 percent of the 538,266 votes cast to President Riyale’s 33.23 percent and UCID leader Faisal Ali Warabe’s 17.18 percent. The defeated incumbent promptly and graciously promised that he would step down and hand over power peacefully before his mandate ends on July 26: “This was a friendly match and at the end somebody had to emerge as a winner. I congratulate President Ahmed Mohamoud Silanyo and his Kulmiye party for winning the presidential election. I will remain in the country as an opposition leader and I will hand over my responsibilities immediately, in accordance with the law.”

    The UK-based team which coordinated the election observers for presidential elections in the internationally unrecognized Republic of Somaliland has also praised the way Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) conducted and the judgment of that the vote that has taken place, on 26 June 2010, in Republic of Somaliland was fair and free. In the days followed, member of British House of Commons from Cardiff asked his prime minster to congratulate the Somaliland government for the success story that is unique and with an informative kudos the prime minster did as reminded. The world community heard and sees Somaliland- so did the weak so-called Somalia Transitional Federal Government- which controls only Mogadishu with the protection of AMISON troops. It is time good Somalia citizens wake and rid themselves of the Alshabab criminals.

    By and large, some people claim that Somalis should be united. They utter that since Somali people share one language, religion, and “culture” of which comparison enrages every rational observer. Let us take those points one by one. There are Somalis that share the same language who have their own independent nation or are part of some other nations. Djibouti is an example and nobody ever contests the legality of that nation. On the other hand, there one big Somali inhabited region that is part of Ethiopia’s federal nation (in fact the biggest zone in Ethiopia’s federal nation). There are the regions of North Eastern Territory of Kenya, formerly known as NFD. These people who blindly and ignorantly protest the genuineness of the reputed Republic of Somaliland claim, just by the lips, that they promote the doomed Greater Somalia Policy, while they failed to unite Somalia ( the south) and rid it off the Al-Qaida linked notorious Al-Shabab terrorists. For their claim that Somalis have one religion and therefore must unite and become one nation, I am not saying much about it but will remind them that most of Arab nations speak the same language, share the same religion yet they are nations that are independent of one another. Just to set the record straight, the religion that took over much of southern and central Somalia is the Al-Shabab brand which is totally mislead version of Islam in many eyes of Muslim scholars.
    About the claim that all Somalis share one culture, I can say and the world knows that Somalis in the reputed Republic of Somaliland have the culture governing by ballot while the Somalis in Somalia have the culture of governing by bullet as the experts noted. International Crises Group highlighted in its Africa Report N°170 on February 21st 2011that Somali’s corruption has always continued uncorrected and now is , “by most accounts” most insidious. The culture of nepotism in selecting public administrative offices is what has been known to every regime that Somalia had since the day of its inception. The regional and the world bodies should grant Somaliland the long overdue diplomatic recognition and their model of government should be adopted by so many willing nations. This should be in the world history books as an example of one of the most free societies in the world that emerged from the most unexpected regions of the world. For Somalia I would say good luck and move on.

    Ahmed Ibrahim Dhegaweyne

    Toronto, Canada

  79. Will Somaliland raise its role in the Italian East African campaign before WWII and the subsequent course of events in London conference?

  80. His Excellency Ambassador Matt, Congratulations on your promotion and appointment from senior Representative to Somalia to the ambassadorial post which is really challenging to unravel the mystery and misery plagued Somalia over the last twenty years. One requires, among other things, to be tactile, diplomatic, firm and enduring to succeed the difficulty Somali tasks ahead. We wish you every success in ylations Ambassador! Good to see Willaim Hague in Mogadishu to accredit you with your new status. Also, I belive good news for Somalia and those of us working towards improvement in the situation for all Somalis and biggest cland of somalia hawiye. Best of luck with the upcoming conference.our new job. in my view is if international community gradually find accurate solution specially replace amisom to international force that come from usa and eu to protect human rights thougth amisom,s bombardmen is indefferenciate in the capital and kenyans too.if we are hawiye. we wellcome any outcome from the conference and i hope one last peace in somalia. thanks to prime minister cameron and britain.

  81. Dear Matt. The solution in Somalia is hand of somalis. This step should be taken to make more stable Somalia for the interest of us all: -The epicenter of the terrorist movement and famine are in south-central Somalia and it should be the main focus. – Somaliland should be recognise as Somaliand Democratic Republic. -The Main muslims clans in south-central Somalia should be supported to fight against the extremist and create sustainable peace and progress. – Somalia should create diplomatic relations with Israel and recognise the only country for the 70 million Jews compare to Iran. – Welcome oil companies to explore and transform Somalia to a new era such as Puntland state administration have done. .-Britian should support a USA military base in Berbera Somaliland. – Britian should create a investment program with the huge Somalli diaspora throughout the world to make a better place to live in and an opportunity for the international community to invest for the New Somalia. – Focus on to get popular support from the elders and community of Hawiye and Digil Mirflle that are dominant in south Somalia and where most of Alshabab tribes – Ahlu Sunna Movement soldiers are consistIng of. With this step Horn of Africa will have better Future Head.

  82. The principle based on the sovereign equality of all states affirms that existing member states be allowed to freely exercise a monopoly of jurisdiction within their borders (1). Therefore, Somalia’s territorial integrity should be respected at all cost. Before delving into a somewhat deeper analysis of how the “Somaliland” entity had normatively sunk into irrelevance, I would first discuss reasons for the creation of Maakhir State of Somalia; a new sub-state whose model for regional self-governance is tailored to the successful realization of the system of building blocks, a federal legislation for restoring the Somali Republic. In addition to Maakhir’s federalist and moral position in preserving the territorial integrity of Somalia, its historical imprint of the survival of a “Muslim Sultanate” (2) until 1920 and its experience of self-governance after the collapse of the Somali state refute the argument that Maakhir would fail to self-sustain itself and so regress into an unviable state.
    Conversely, I would discuss the geographic dimension of the former British protectorate, its colonial history, and the contentious legal and political issues in seceding from Somalia and finally conclude my paper with a synopsis for a case study of Kosovo, whose declaration of independence was recognized first by EU followed by the United States.
    A little zoom into the political development of Somali history prior to our independence from Italy and Britain clearly proves that the two Somali regions agreed to merge forever as one juridical family prior to their unitary independence and therefore had one flag and one constitution. Second, the history of the SNM, which was a rebel Somali faction like the SSDF, reveals that they had no Manifesto that said it was fighting for secession from the rest of Somalia.
    The primary objectives, therefore, for the formation of these political movements including the United Somali Congress (USC) were to whip up the sleeping masses under repressive dictatorial regime of Mohamed Said Barreh, so they all united under the banner of the forceful eviction of the last Somali regime. However, the Somali Republic was gradually let to slip into the current, intractable disintegration bringing about massive starvation, displacement, ethnic-cleansing and all the other consequences of civil strife. Somalia now being a failed state needs to be reconstituted and in the meantime preserved the North (Puntland, Maakhir and Somaliland) into its mutual peaceful relationship.

    The formation of Maakhir state, for instance, on the northeastern part of Somalia is a great asset to the northern unionist. Its political geography falls mainly in the region of Sanaag and western part of Bari region. Its independence was declared on July 1, 2007 at a communal conference in Badhan and Dhahar districts, in Sanaag region. Since then, Maakhir state has unilaterally joined the federal constitution of Somalia. Though it has been startling to many outside the community, the idea is not strange to Maakhirites to either remain independent or neutralize the separatist intentions “Somaliland”.

    The TFG, for instance, equally recognizes Somaliland and Puntland as accepted members of this model though both entities proclaim different political identities of self-rule and of making giant strides towards peace and security. These two administrations have benefited from the endorsement of the United Nations’ legitimacy for their states’ respective territorial jurisdictions within Somalia (known as local levels of rule). However, both political entities, took radical positions towards one another by launching proxy war against their claims on Sool and Sanaag regions due to the security dilemma concept discussed above, therefore contributing to the security and economic deterioration of Sool region and the invasion of its capital Las Anod. The region of most of Sanaag by contrast has enjoyed a relative peace. The fall of Sool to the renegade entity has now attracted sheer political mobilization among the Dhulbahante clans in the Diaspora for a collective military action in response to the military aggression of Somaliland as it is pronounced in the declaration of a Liberation Movement at a communal conference in London.

    Only a few cases of secession from existing member states of the United Nations were legally recognized as possessing normative legitimacy for their acclaimed right to an external self-determination, and those few cases came from states or empires constitutionally arranged as federal systems. Federally arranged states partly disintegrated owing to egregious violations of their federal charters prior to their legal merge. For instance, Eritrea was an autonomous unit federated with Ethiopia under the sovereignty of Ethiopian Crown, and the ratification of their subsequent agreements was sanctioned by the U.N. Therefore, these unique territories (such as the Baltic states, Eritrea, and East Timor) under states constitutionally arranged as federal systems, possessed legitimate struggle against annexation, not secessionim struggle because the administrations of the states with which they were federated dissolved the federal agreements protecting their religious and linguistic rights as well as their widest measure of self-government. Besides the population in these new states were demanded of absolute loyalty and to submit to other assimilationist pressures for reasons of state integrity and security.

    valuating further on whether “Somaliland” had possessed the attributes of statehood based on the history of the legal merger of the two regions of Somalia, let us revisit the Covenant on the Civil and Political Rights (CCPR), and the UN General Assembly Resolution 1514(XV) of 1960, the latter was implemented through the Charter-based mechanism. In an analytical framework to the time when both British and Italian Somaliland were granted independence and merged thereafter, one would come to know whether the break-away entity of Northwestern Somalia ever transpired into a state of its own. Under article 1 of the CCPR, the subjection of peoples to alien rule and exploitation violates the UN charter, so it can be said immediate steps were taken, in non-self-governing territories (Colonies), to transfer all powers once and for all.

    Article 6 of Resolution 1514(XV) also proclaims that, after the transfer of all powers in non-self-governing territories to the people concerned, disruption of the political and territorial integrity of a country formed subsequently is incompatible with the charter. As it is evident from the widespread protest demonstrated by our leaders in 1959, the Legislative Council in Hargeisa appointed a commission to represent their voted resolution passed on April 6, 1960 by the elected members of the Protectorate on their political desire and heartfelt aspiration for an independence and immediate union with Somalia(3). Britain was quick to acquiesce to such popular demands though it regretted the short interval of timing under which the responsibility of the protectorate were to be transferred to Somalia. Another important document states that widespread political protests arising from the secret liquidation of the Hawd Reserve to Imperial Ethiopia forced Britain to “accept the eventual unification of British Somaliland with Italian Somaliland,” (4).

    1. you are speaking out of topic Mr. Elmi, creation of these small clans within Somaliland particularly it is very clear is to sabotage peace, stability, democracy in Somaliland and it is one card Ethiopia plays in my opinion by divide and rule.

      It is unfurtunate you are trying to solicit my city of Buhodle, and let me tell you freedom, peace, democracy and engagement in civil society i had not when i am under clan system in Buhodle as a woman. and let me tell you those who were armed militia of SSC are them selves who are calling khatumo. therefore with my respect of my clan they are two faces of the same coins of the terrorism.

      i like multiparty system in Somaliland and my clan are refusing because of their illiterate and because of our in sencere buhodle politicians.

      Regarding your debate about Somaliland independence, there is no any violations to AU charter, by the Somalia and Somaliland unity and forming Somali Republic democratic constitution was suppose democratic, therefore first breach that constitution was 1969.
      would you tell me after genocide which systematically we did against North
      as government and after South of Somalia became fail state they have no right to declare independent?

      Why did not we learn from other nations like UK where British prime minister honourable David Cameron call for Scotland to have independence referendum?!!

      or South of Somalia as fail State they need to come to London and ask Somaliland to lead as Somaliland came to Mogadisho in 1960.?

  83. Somalia stability depend on Interest (Oil) and Balance (supper power governments to do real job) without these two solutions, Somalia will never get Peace and Stability government from INGO & NGO etc. So, We Somalian must accept to buy our peace and stable government with or without high cost from big boys. Otherwise, we will stay to bond with low profile dealers!!!!!!!!

  84. Dear,
    Matt baugh ,
    Yep!somaliland is a state that has used its flambeau of Democracy and Development In a predermined and Highly Evaluated Strategy ,and that is why it has recieved its lost Independence a days after its Statehood ,and now somaliland has a flag,curruncies,Governmental -branches,and a people ;who are observing and Evaluating the ”Planned-strategy of progress and Nationhood all somalilanders whether they are In ”Maryland ,u.s or Yorkshire,U.k are Counting the Threats and progress of their nations because They have Much dab-hand in any field of Knowledge .The GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND Invited somaliland to ”London” conference In a non-signatory But can hidden plans beyond that ,so our political-figures have some discussed rights by the somalilanders to attend or not attend for that” conference”fortunately after much global debates by the ”somalilanders” now they are attending but they can’n do nothing because they are only poltical figures they have to observe the happening ”In london” and they are only acting the desires of somalilanders not their ”desires ”because somaliland’s foreign and internal policy is much wider than groups it effects all ”somalilnders”,so now u are ambassador to one of our neigbouring ”countries ”somalia what is ur perceptions towards ”the former state of somaliland” now the defacto state of ”somaliland”.

  85. Dear Ambassador,

    First congrats on your new post, and welcome to Somalia.

    Great read, very surprised with different extreme opinions of the Somalis, no wonder a proper government could not be installed in Somalia for the last 21 years. It is very hard, and it is very obvious that there is a great mistrust among Somalis.

    Extra care must be given on how the representatives are selected from Somali regions, it should be fair and transparent, the powers of the current TFG and other regions invited are extremely flawed and unbalanced, the 4.5 systems is very biased and leaves many Somali citizens without representatives.

    I was also surprised how some here want to feed, and spam with false nonexistence history in order to get advantage over others.

    Good luck and congrats again to your new post.

    Regards
    Ali Hawar

  86. First I would like to thank UK for its new interest, and the new approach wanting to help Somalia It has been badly needed and long over due, I seriously believe UK would be one of the only countries that would have help solve Somalia’s problem.

    It is difficult to get the participants right, but it can be done, for example, you can see how the secessionists, Somaliland supporters want to steal the voices of the masses in SOOL, Sanaag, Ayn, Maakhir, Awdal who are majority pro union and against the secession. The same goes for Puntland, who can play the tactic of wanting to steal the voices of these regions.

    Good luck and I hope this conference bears fruit, and gets fair representation of the regions.

    Thank You
    Ali

  87. as khaatumo state citizen we we wont accept so called isaaq clan state somaliland to represent north somalia we wont accept hargiesa isaaq be our capital they killed our ppl in ssc so we want siilaanyo to be in int crime court ,we want to see the criminals of isaaq snm to be in jail now or no more somalia and we will fight to free rest of ssc sool sanaag cayn of khaatumo state we will fight siilaanyo the criminal the racist old man

  88. Clouds of War in Somalia’s Northern Region – “Somaliland”

    For Some time now, “Somaliland” has been showered with praises both by the international community and Somalis alike. Not because it had implemented grandiose ideals, but because it observed one dear illusive phenomenon in the Horn of Africa – peace and security in the region. In the last twenty years, when Southern Somalia was mired in self-inflicted blaze, “Somaliland” clans enjoyed relative peace and a modicum of good governance. Some called it “an Oasis of peace.”

    Why peace survived so far in Somaliland? The answer lies not in Hargaisa, but in the outlying regions of Sool, Sanag, Cayn (SCC) and Awdel. There has always been a détente between SSC and Awdel communities in the eastern and western edges of the regions, respectively. That is to say peace came from the peripheries down to the center in a collective effort to avert conflict in Somaliland, lest peace is more important to the peoples of the peripheries, who often happen to have less guns and more good will, than those who boast to hail from the center of the power.

    Nonetheless, the communities in these regions breathed and enjoyed the scent of peace, blowing unbridled from Saaxil to Sanaag and from Burco to Buhoodle; the peaceful mind-soothing winds blowing from Nugal and Haud (in Somalia, “saxan saxo nabadeed oo Nugaal iyo Hawd ka waarta”) were provided to the clans of Somaliland by the deliberate observance of conflict aversion and coexistence.

    Commentators invariably hailed the elders and guurti of the region as the anchor for maintaining a condition some called the “absence of war.” This author, in a visit to Addis Ababa under the sponsorship of the Uppsala- based “Live and Peace Institute” worked with strengthening the guurti system, along with colonel and former member of the Somali National Movement (SNM), Cisse Guracte, Jafar Gaadawayne, Mohamoud Bayre, etc. as early as 1992.

    People in the North often got overenthusiastic, arrogant and became self-assured about how the north or “Somaliland” is more cultured than its southern half where the guurti institution is not as strong.

    Little did they know, what has been enjoyed since the unilateral declaration of secession by Hargaisa from the rest of the Republic of Somalia was nothing more than “the calm before the storm.” It now seems we mistook a temporary mirage for a permanent peace that soon would evaporate at the eruption of an open conflict in the Buuhoodle region. Alas, we knew it was coming. But when, no wanted to wanted to guess lest the consequences were bleak and painful.

    In the aftermath of the ongoing bloodletting of nephews against uncles, in-laws and distant relatives, we now know that the calm was only possible because clans in SSC and Awdel regions deferred their political dreams. To their credit, communities in SSC and Awdel towed this line of nurturing peace for a good 20-years period in an era of 4.5 political cultures.

    But, when they can no longer differ their wishes, the détente that so far sustained peace is about to be replaced with conflict and war. The beginning of the end is commenced when groups from SSC and Awdel announced their existential goals in order to be counted in the 4.5 formula, in which Somali clans supposedly get their representation in the nation’s political space, Hargaisa unfortunately goes crazy with its massive guns.

    Beginning from the closing days of the year 2011, both SSC and Awdel regions officially had joined the mushrooming local administrations formed in all parts of Somalia? Markus V. Hoehne, who is writing a book on the conflict in the SSC region, has recently shared with this author what the new map of Somalia looks like. Reflective of all the local “lands,” the non-official map of Somalia would soon register no less than 30 lands (Somaliland, Puntland, Jubaland, Galmugland, Khatumo, Awdel, Xeeb iyo Ximin, Azania, and many more than one cares to count them here).

    Whether this rush to local governance and the potential challenge it posses for the emergent federal system of Somalia is consistent with the so-called “bottom up” governance strategy is difficult to say. Yes, it is something; at minimum, it tells the Somali society that their once cohesive unitary nation-sate moving asunder, with Somalia soon to be written with small letter as in “Somalia”.

    Nonetheless, the goals for which SSC and Awdel communities revolted are in particular basically democratic at the root, and as such are in search for social justice within the Somalia framework. Somalis are, in the words of Ali Mazrui, magnanimous and as such like to share and forget, but at the same time oblivious to be “ruled” by their own rivals. It was in this context that in 1885 Sir. Richard Burton pronounced Somalis a “nation of republicans.” The import of this statement being one can only rule Somalis with their full consent. Indeed a lesson that the last President Somalia had known, the late President Barre learned too late and Ahmed Silanyo of Somaliland may soon do so.

    Khatumo State – Somaliland’s Nightmare

    All the structures of détente have changed on December 25, 2011, when the SSC initiated the Telex conference, a grassroots conference, to establish local governance. The conference also declared the political intent for the liberation SSC and its sacred unity with Somalia.

    None other than the former Prime Minister of Somalia, Dr. Ali Khalif Galydh, delivered the dark and melancholic keynote address where he underlined the resolve of the conference’s participants. According to Galydh, all that his people did was to have their say in their own God-given regions of the nation. He did not mince at the indivisibility and territorial integrity of Somalia. But Hargaisa does not seem to get any consolation from the words of Somali unity. On the contrary, in one opinion posted on WardheerNews by Jama Asker from Hargaisa, “formation of such states within territories historically belonged to what was known as Somaliland British Protectorate is virtually tantamount to a downfall of secessionist project in Hargeisa.” The question is whether Hargaisa’s premature action of taking up its war machine to the killing fields of Lasanod and Buuhoodle will bear fruit.

    In the first week of Januar 2012, the participants of the peaceful conference at Talex of mainly elders, intellectuals and local elders, after a robust deliberation, helped midwife “Khatumo State” [i]. Such a declaration officially and unequivocally declared political independence of SSC from Hargaisa. In response, Hargaisa retaliated by launching a disproportional attack on Buuhoodle and called off the détente between SSC and Hargaisa.

    What is scary for the region’s long term stability is that the mind behind the invasion of Buuhoodle is the controversial former leader of the Somali National Movement (SNM) and the current president of “Somaliland.” He had waged war in the past and seems willing to do so now with no remorse. For example, with casualties mounting to levels higher than ever before since the Somalia civil war erupted 22 years ago, all utterances coming from him is no more than a call for more war.

    Is Somaliland sliding back to an era of conflict and noticeable instability?

    SSC has been slowly but steadily developing to its current culmination in the creation of Khartoum state, mainly because Hargaisa’s defiance in hearing out what the other side’s vision for Somalia’s integrity and unity is. In 1994, at a highly watched Senate sub-committee hearing in Washington DC, Dr. Ali Khalif gave the most devastating testimony on the non-viability of “Somaliland,” and boosted support for the territorial integrity of the Somali Republic.

    Following Dr. Galydh’s presentation, the late President Egal came to Washington and secured an audience with the then undersecretary for African Affairs at the US Department and the current US ambassador to the UN, Mrs. Susan Rice. The meeting literally dampened Egla’s hope for recognition. By showing a map that depicts some of the major groups in “Somaliland,” Mrs. Rice told Egal in verbatim that Somaliland is not one voice, but many conflicting voices.

    Egal, an astute politician, briefed the Somali community in the Beltway and shared with them his dashed hopes for Somaliland ever seeing the light, not in his “life time” at least. More pressure was also exerted on Somaliland by groups like Northern Somali for Peace Unity (NSPU) to not abuse the rights of non-secessionist regions.

    Is it that Egal saw the final words written on the wall as a result of the resolve expressed to him by Secretary Susan’s realism that he felt all he could in the remaining time of his life was to maintain peace? Or was he an ingenious politician who knew war is never winnable? We may never know. What we do know is that he averted conflict and bloodletting for a long time.

    Since his departure, war and conflicts in the Eastern regions of Northern Somalia have to a noticeable degree consumed innocent civilians. In the words of Markus Hoehne, since the Somalia civil war, SSC residents have been marginalized. And, with the birth of Khatumo state, a vehicle for SSC to organize and pressure Hargaisa, Mr. Ahmed Silanyo, a controversial leader known for his heightened sensitivity and bias towards clan politics, could potentially cause much havoc in the region.

    Somalis and the world, including regional governments should persuade Hargaisa to stop the war. In particular, the Somali National State (killil 5) and its formidable police force, who also administer half of the border town of Buuhoodle and much of Haud region, may be forced to intervene and stop the bloodletting of innocent civilians. For their own selfish reasons, they may seek justification to just do that.

    Faisal A. Roble
    Emal: fabroble@aol.com

    http://www.wardheernews.com/Articles%202012/Feb/05_clouds_war_somaliland_faisal.html

  89. Garowe Road Map is unrealistic, Road map was originally peace process between israel and palestine, are proplems of Somalia same or different!!!

    I do not think so…., Somaliland parliament today voted unfortunately the president Silanyo to take part LONDON conference, i hope this will not make Somaliland to meddle South of Somalia problems!!!

    UK needed to take role in leading political game of Somalia and to pay back credit at least that to Somaliland!!!!, as you already put alot of effort regarding elections and security other wise failing of Somaliland following this will mean another failing state!!!!!.

  90. U Can Invite Thousands Of political Elites,Diplomatic Elders,Businessmen but u can not make Ur visions,missions,and Arranged Diplomatica and political Agendas In a single Day and Nights ;Meaning The British Government and northern ireland should be noted the World is Beyond Their Planned Decentralized Policies towards the Stablization Of ”Failed” State of somalia Besides that ”The Democratic”state of somaliland used to be British Procterate Prior 60s But it has successfully Gained its Independence Before The Independence of major african countries like ,KENYA &SOMALIA.by the way somaliland has Employed Thousands of Thinking Minds to Re-boot their lost Independence now somaliland is feeling a nationhood characteristics that can add some value to ”The Developed world ”and africa at large so ”Somaliland as unique african country” Should Edify some lessons to the ”Failed peoples and state of ”somalia,and the british goverrnment should support that lessons without any kind of ” Cheating” But with a Congratulatory Statements and as the matter of fact ” The somalia’s peoples and state (TFG) are not ready to make some reslotions towards their ”collective”backwardness and ”BRITISH ”government and its allies must support ”the achievemnts of somaliland” and must Editoralize Their ”realtions with somaliland” without out no cheating because somalilanders can completely understand any kind of ”Diplomatic -phenomenon” and forgod’s sake the Government of U.K should Identify their relations and inner support with somaliland an’ U.k uniquely supports the ”The former state of somaliland” now ”The defacto state of somaliland it will be observed a progressed and stabilized africa ,but an’not support somaliland The situation of honr and africa at large will be detoriated because Most ”Africans don’t have a shrewdness that can match than somaliland.as a conclusion u can invite thousands but as my experience is stating ther ewill be no resolutions only ”Drinking&Eating” Once again u have to listen Both the expereince of somaliland’s political figures and its academic youth.

    wish u all the best,
    Hassan Behi.

  91. ‘Somaliland’s sovereignty’ is a myth, it’s about time the people of the triangle towns of hargeisa, Burco and Berbera realised they belong to a country named SOMALIA. This quest for a ‘republic of triangle towns’ is absurd, stop it and join the process of bringing a functioning government that you helped destroy with your clan militia. [SNM]

    1. Mario,

      The triangle as you call it is bigger the Djibouti. So your point is invalid. Also Why discount the remainder of Somaliland? Since Somaliland Indpendence several referendums and votes took place Where a high majority were for Somaliland?
      More importantly, many can’t see the point of joining a country that countinued fighting and breaking up?
      Why should Somaliland who has been peace full and stable for a long time join the rest of the failed Somalia?
      Lastly, Why would you want Somaliland to rejoin when it clearly does not care for this and you clearly do not care for the people init?

      The fact is the animostly, resentment, threatening, and malice towards the ‘triangle’ is not the main reason Somalilanders choose to stay away.
      The blunt truth that is being escaped is that the rest of Somalia has been termed the most failed country. Yet you go on about Somaliland Independence even thought it was declared over 20yrs ago.
      Is your obssesion misplaced. Should you not be busy re building Somalia like Somaliland has.
      Are putting the cart before the horse. Giving empty words to hide the real work needed. Or Are you hoping Somaliland will save you whilst you attack what it has achieved?

    2. Mario you need to be gratefull to SNM, they created for us Somaliland which we enjoy peace till today!!!. We are lucky we have not been done to us what other our brothers and sisters in south suffer!!

      To say Burao agreement was void show us that we are hypocrite

  92. Couple case studies Success story of other pro-secessionist countries proceed Somaliland…..

    Over estimating what we can do in short time and under estimate what can be achieved in longer term, Singapore and Taiwan are very good example where both have no International Recognition for more than 60 years to date. We know well the both countries are pro-secessionist withdrew from ruled mainland China with 2.5b population from 1911 to 1949. Singapore is another pro-secessionist on 16 September 1963, Singapore merged with the Federation of Malaya. After end of a 144-year period of British rule in Singapore, beginning with the founding of modern Singapore de facto decided upon the expulsion of Singapore from the Federation, leading to the Independence of Singapore on 9 August 1965 as same copy of Somaliland…..

    Both Countries discovered the famous term called “Conscious of Capitalism” that made them both the Miracle Economy Super Powers instead of political unconsciousness…..

    I’m not going too far on this topic, but human raise decision making can create a circumstance to be paid back base on capitalism consciousness like Singapore and Taiwan far away from the political unconsciousness that’s why both chose pro-secessionist withdrawal of Malaysia and China.
    So even, in political view, no virtual reasoning that UK will listen the nonsense and unpractical “African Pandora Box Article Condition” that laid by His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie around the time of the Italian Invasion of 1935 which already revoked deliberately for Eritrea, Gambia, Mali and southern Sudan petitioned the AU to revoke and withdrawing the bond of set of Pandora Box base on that all these countries got their complete independents recognition from African Union followed by the World. …..
    But this Organization still moralizes and legalizes usually hypocritical invariably plain stand and applying that Death Article against Somaliland self-determination “after the 77 years of dictators’s house of African Union after Re-named by Ghaaffi with his financial influence that cannot feed their populations for whole years of post colonial independence from 1960’s.
    In similarity Revocation Definition applied both on Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo’s declaration of independences from Serbia the former Yugoslavia. Last word of Western Politicians: Why should the world care about Somaliland and its quest for recognition?

    Now, notion of speaking same language is absolutely unrealistic in simple reason Wolof is a spoken language in Senegal like the neighboring in Gambia, and Mauritania, Mali and Niger and Congo and is the native language of the Wolof people. The Wolof forms an ethnic plurality with about 43.3% with combining total of the five nations having an estimated population of about 130 million. Also in a number of countries in West Africa is ethnography of a large ethnic group located mainly in the western part of the former French colony. ……
    Instead of Somalia spoken languages in five different countries with combined population of 15-20 million is just an ethicist of only personal judgment merely to defeat the rights of Somaliland people where as millions of Somali speaking people are spreading in Kenya, Djibouti and Ethiopia as natives. It’s just a denial and undermining the fundamental principles of Somaliland’s sovereignty and independence and it’s the only issue people know will be not compromisable.

  93. I think the best solution to the Somali conflict is Puntland State of Somalia. It can be a role model for the rest of Somalia. Puntland managed to democratically govern it’s land and people without claiming to separate from it beloved nation. It inspired Awdal State, Khatumo State, and Galmudug State of Somalia. It managed to explore its natural resources and is effectively fighting with piracy and terrorists. It manged to hold a conference for Somali stakeholders and single handedlly provided the security for such an important conference. While Somaliland is relatively stable, it can not claim to be the only stable region in Somalia. I highly advice the Somaliland officials to stop the dream of separation. The Somali people are not mentally ready to an altered view of our Somali map. I am sure the people of Somaliland are not prepared to see such a hurific world map. Somaliland is the land which belongs to all of Somali people. Please don’t help anyone to take it away from us. Thank you

  94. I can not believe what I am reading on this blog that Some individuals who are calling themselves Somali intellectuals trying to educate Great Britain about Somalia and how it was governed before their botched up independence and they even keep repeating it. what a waste!!!!.

    We should be talking about the issues matters and the feedback requested.

  95. FLESH NEWS…UK PM, David Cameron called personally to the president of Somaliland today and sent especial envoy the “UK Ambassdor to Ethiopia” for reaffirmation about the ambitious, democratic and peaceful post independence under a legitimate and accountable government that responds primarily to the needs and aspirations of the Somaliland people will be not compromised and has nothing to do with this Somalia chaos problems. But rather needed Somaliland inputs in consultation to contribute by helping Somalia like other 50 participants.

    Other New Development increasingly emerging…. In the context of London Conference, it has been circulated an Italian proposal which advocates a 16 months of UN/AU Trusteeship or what it is called Transitional Administration on Somalia. The Italian proposal has formally documented the total failure of the TFG and international efforts. Theoretically, the proposal is far better than the current situation of TFG’s vassal model or what Prof Afyare Elmi called “stealth trusteeship” on Somalia under disparate actors.

  96. To brother Farah-Egal
    Here is the reality of the situation, the truth on the ground. People claim, SomaliLAND existed before as territory. Some academics are prone to defining their terms of what is SomaliLAND. However what they mean by ‘Somaliland’ – or the ‘North’ for that matter. I know from personal experience that the two terms mean different things to different people. The other myth which many people claim, foreigners, is that there are two solid blocks one of which is ‘Somalia’ – or the ‘South’- and the other is ‘SomaliLAND’ – or the ‘North’. In reality, these blocks do not exist on the ground. Unfortunately, Somalis are divided along clan lines, not on the basis of geography or colonial heritage. In a way this is good, for every dark cloud has a silver lining, and the silver lining here is that secession is prevented by the lack of coincidence between regional and clan divisions. That is precisely why the secession of one clan (Isaaq) in what was once called ‘SomaliLAND Protectorate’ cannot succeed. But, if the terms of the Union between the two territories that merged in 1960 are to be renegotiated each of them must first and foremost reconfigure itself in order to coalesce around a solid goal and then negotiate with the other side. Incidentally, there was no regional or provincial administration in British SomaliLAND. The entire territory was divided into six districts during the colonial administration. It was the Somali government that bifurcated the area in 1961 by creating two regions – one based in Hargeisa (‘Northwestern Region’) and the other based in Burao (‘Northeastern Region’). This is a fact that must be accepted and anyone who denies this fact is denying the history that took place in previous generations.
    Now the truth of the matter is today, the winds of unity are blowing in the Northern Somali territories. Why because since the fall of the Siad Barre’s regime, there have been two fighting ideologies in the territory that was known as British SomaliLAND which I just explained above that is not true entirely, there was never a block of land known as SomaliLAND. The first ideology was the belief in one unified Somali Republic, led by Northern Unionists. The second ideology was the belief in dividing the Somali Republic on early European imperial boundaries, led by the SNM, also known as the Secessionist. The Secessionist strong holds are Hargeisa, Berbera, and Burco, what can be called the SNM triangle. The western and eastern regions, of what was known as British Somaliland (non- Isaaq), have recently declared itself independent from rest of SomaliLAND state and decided to join the Somali Republic in the forms of two federal states: The Awdal State and the Khaatumo State. These new federal states, within the Somali Republic, are following international law and policy towards the Somali territories which explicitly dictates that the Somali nation is one and that it must be federated. With the emergence of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State the idea of two Somali nation-states, the idea of secessionism, I believe is dead and International Community recognize this and know this fact. Like Communism, the idea of SomaliLAND as country is dead and people need to accept this reality, especially after 2 decades longing for a new country they must realize the situation the ground has shifted in the momentum of Somali Republic and they need to shift their diplomacy to became part of this change. Sometimes you can go against the wind of change and achieve nothing or accept the reality and incorporate your ideals, negotiate your rights in the momentum of changes taking place around you. Also the fact that no government in the International Community accepted such secession ideology should be a wake-up call for all secession promoters.
    Today the SNM military regime has decided to send hundreds of troops to the western and eastern regions to conduct armed suppression on the innocent Somali populace. There are currently 400 troops on the outskirts of Borama to violently suppress the emergence of the Awdal State. There are currently many hundreds troops on the outskirts of Buhodle to violently suppress the emergence of the Khaatumo State. Currently, the SomaliLAND Army (the SNM Army) is committing crimes against humanity against the innocent Somali populace in Buhodle. The only crimes these people are committing are to be Unionist. The Awdal State and the Khaatumo State have declared their territories to be unionist territories, within the Somali Republic. Therefore, the international community must recognize the breach of sovereignty the SomaliLAND Army is committing against the sovereign territory of the Somali Republic. Sovereignty is the main pillar of international law, and de jure sovereignty of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State are solely with the Somali Republic, and not the illegal secessionist entity known as SomaliLAND. Like Hungary and Czechoslovakia during the Soviet era, the SomaliLAND Army is seeking to suppress the will of the people, but I repeat again like Communism, the idea of SomaliLAND is dead. With the emergence of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State, the winds of unity are blowing in the Northern Somali territories.
    Now regarding choice of a system, whether confederal, federal, unitary or consociational, is ultimately a political one. The discussion thus far has been on the choice between the two well-known systems; namely, the federal and the unitary. In theory, the relative merits and demerits of the two systems are well known, but in practice both have succeeded and failed in different parts of the world. Whilst we all agree that federalism is more complex and daunting and the unitary approaches is apparently, if deceptively, simpler and straightforward we should pause and think why the same system succeeds in one country and fails in another. Surely, it is the human element that makes the difference between success and failure.
    The decision to opt for federalism has been irrevocably made, already, as a political compromise between the clans and after a long journey beginning with the clamor of Hisbia Digle Mirifle (later Hizbia Dastur Mustaquil Soomaliyeed , HDMS) in the late fifties for a federal arrangement. The inalterable reality, which is still current, is that neither Puntland nor what used to be Upper Juba region (the stronghold of the erstwhile HDMS) will settle for the unitary stem. Nor can the secessionist Administration based in Hargeisa be lured back to national unity with anything less than a federalism that unequivocally and genuinely guarantees them to be masters in their own home which makes sense and they should really reflect on this concept and idea. Other units of the federal state have been in the making and are also preparing themselves for their own home rule as well.
    Now the current SomaliLAND state need to forget and stop making false claims to the Awdal State and Khaatumo State. Both of these states along with Galmudug State, Puntland State, and an executive federal state of Benadir (Mogadishu), will be the foundation for the new Somali Republic. SomaliLAND state are welcomed to join this republic federal system.
    These five states, with the emergence of few more federal states in South-Central Somalia, will collectively provide personnel for the new Somali government that will emerge after August 2012. The post August 2012 Somali legislative and executive branches should be firmly inclusive to insure an organically accepted central government.

  97. Hawyie – the nationalist and Liberator of Somalia from the Dictator Ziad Barre will obviously form a new strong and lead Somalia Goverment with help of the conference of London and eventually defeat Pirates of Puntland. Or if that failed, then there is another option on the table that already suggested by Italia as follow contest:

    After humailiateding defeat of the Italian Fascists by Alliance, then the British military adminstration Italian fascist on somalia trusteeship. Today, the history repeats itself and it repeated in 2012. After 1948 when the United Nations deliberations on the future of what known “the colony aroused patrotic fervor” particularly during the visit of the U.N’s Four- Power Commission delegation in 1948.Britain, France the United States voted a U.N Trusteeship under tutelage. Now, Italian are proposed the same trusteeship to United Nations : http://hadhwanaagmedia.info/detail.aspx?id=56968

  98. Listening to Somaliland – and deploying some of its methods in achieving stability – is crucial to addressing the crisis in Somalia.

    The upcoming London Conference on Somalia, and the UK’s urging of the Somaliland government to attend, has understandably generated a lot of debate and comment within the Somaliland community, both within and outside the country. One of the stated objectives of the conference, according to Matt Baugh, senior representative for Somalia, is to ‘…reinforce the relative stability in areas of Somalia, such as Somaliland and Puntland and in the south…’.

    This statement has, again understandably, aroused the ire of the people of Somaliland since they recovered their sovereignty from the erstwhile Republic of Somalia in 1991, and have steadfastly maintained their distance from the anarchy, state collapse and war that have engulfed Somalia ever since, despite repeated attempts often involving violence (e.g. Al-Shabaab’s attacks in Hargeisa and upon expatriates in Somaliland) to drag them into this unending maelstrom.

    Somaliland and its people expected more from their former colonial protector, and it is either a reflection of the insensitivity of the current Foreign and Colonial Office to the aspirations of the people of Somaliland, or simply of their lack of knowledge of the politics of the Horn of Africa, that they refer to Somaliland as a region of Somalia, as Puntland is. The interpretation that many hard line, anti-Somaliland politicians within Somalia have given this British insensitivity or ignorance, is that the British have coerced the Somaliland government to attend the conference as a regional authority, just like Puntland, Galmudug etc. Whatever the explanation for this impolitic language, and it is likely to be a combination of all three outlined herein, the fact is that the British government has put the Silanyo administration in a very difficult spot indeed. If they attend the conference, as they have stated they will, then they will reap the wrath of the vast majority of their people; if they don’t, and they may yet be forced to a volte face, then they will look weak and will reap the wrath of Albion through curtailment of aid and a downgrade of bilateral ties.

    Leaving aside the issue of Somaliland’s attendance for the moment, it is instructive to consider what this latest conference on Somalia is meant to achieve and the likelihood of it achieving its stated objectives, which have been set out as follows:

    – Security: sustainable funding for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), and support for Somali security and justice sectors.

    – Political Process: agreement to what should succeed the transitional institutions in Mogadishu in August 2012 and the establishment of a Joint Financial Management Board.

    – Local Stability: a coordinated international package of support to Somalia’s regions.

    – Counter-terrorism: renewed commitment to tackle collectively the terrorist threat emanating from Somalia.

    – Piracy: breaking the piracy business model.

    – Humanitarian: renewed commitment to tackling Somalia’s humanitarian crisis.

    – International coordination: agreement on improved international handling of Somalia issues.

    This is quite a challenge and it is clear that no single conference can be expected to achieve these gargantuan goals, so we must question what the British government actually hopes to achieve at this conference. According to Chris Allen, UK deputy ambassador to Ethiopia, more than 40 senior government officials and multilateral organizations, including French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, are expected to attend the conference. Clearly, Prime Minister David Cameron and Foreign Secretary William Hague have invested considerable political capital and much personal credibility in this conference.

    The fact is that there have been some 17 or 18 conferences (depending upon one’s criteria on what constitutes a conference) held to effect reconciliation and establish a credible, effective government for Somalia since 1991, including the latest one earlier this month in Garowe. All of these conferences can be said to have failed miserably since Somalia remains the very definition of a failed state with no central state authority in control of the country. Yet, the British government has raised expectations internationally and within East Africa by hosting this conference and prevailing upon heads of state and government, the foreign donor community and the current Somali leadership, such as it is, to attend. On the face of it, given the near debacle of abject failure at the recent Garowe conference, which was only avoided by the UN acceding to the opposing demands of the two camps into which the participants divided regarding the basis upon which a future government of Somalia would be formed, the prospects for success seem rather dim.

    So what do the British have up their sleeve, as it were, that leads them to believe that this conference will bear the sweet fruit of success where all the others have failed? Firstly, they have been dangling the enticing carrot of increased international aid for ‘peaceful’ regions, which has resulted in a sudden proliferation of regional states announced by aspirant diaspora would-be ‘leaders’ seeking their fleeting 15 minutes of fame (or perhaps infamy might be a more apt term) on the world stage, or in this case, the London stage and a briefcase of money – courtesy of the foreign donors. This opportunistic gold rush of regional statehood has even infected the peaceful parts of the erstwhile Somali Republic (i.e. Somaliland and Puntland) with the recent moves to legitimise the dangerous, diaspora-driven, political mischief-making disguised as Awdal State and Khatumo 2.

    Thus, while the direct responsibility for the recent deaths of security personnel and civilians in Buhoodle in Somaliland can be laid at the door of the naked ambition and greed of the Somali Diaspora carpet-baggers seeking a place at the London conference, the British government must accept its indirect, if unintentional, culpability. To quote a much-misused political axiom of our times, actions have consequences.

    Secondly, with the support of the US and UN Security Council (UNSC), the British hope to revisit the agreement reached at Garowe wherein all things were promised to all parties. At Garowe, a further interim period of four years was agreed, during which Somalia would be ‘governed’ by a new interim government formed on the basis of the 4.5 clan model upon which the present TFG was formed. Thereafter, in 2016, a permanent government for Somalia will be formed based upon regional representation and not the 4.5 clan structure. The foreign donor community had intended that the Garowe conference would form the permanent government that has been pushed back four years, although any rational observer with knowledge of Somali history and politics, particularly during the period since the collapse of the Siyad Barre dictatorship, would have seen the chasm between these intentions and the hard reality on the ground. What, in effect, the foreign donors were attempting to effect was to construct the edifice of a permanent government upon quicksand, since the basis upon which a new Somali state was to be formed had not even been addressed.

    The London Conference seeks to revisit the political agreement on the formation of a permanent government for Somalia, because the issue was ducked at Garowe, and the prospect of another four years of anarchy and political stasis under yet another interim government is unpalatable to the foreign donors. However, since the core issues underlying the collapse of the Somali state have not been addressed – and are not tabled to be addressed at the conference – it is destined to fail. These issues revolve around the rationale for the existence of the state itself, i.e. what is the underlying basis for political consent in Somalia? The rationale for the creation of the erstwhile Republic was the irredentist dream of Greater Somalia, and this dream has been consigned to the dustbin of history for a whole host of reasons, both internal and external, which are beyond the scope of this paper to delve into. However, despite the lingering passion of some Somalis for this mirage of the past, and the false, in-name-only adherence of some regional powers seeking to advance their own self interested, political calculations, this discredited and empty irredentism can no longer further the political aspirations and hopes for a better future of a new generation of Somalis.

    Succeeding generations of young Somalis, which have been robbed of any and all opportunity for betterment while observing both their own misery and the changing world around them are no longer inspired by dreams of Greater Somalia. The call to their political loyalty is to their sub-clan and the call to their faith is to a medieval nihilism masquerading as Islam. They demand a life and the chance for betterment now and a faith that connects them to humanity and human progress, not one that not only denies it, but cuts them off from it in the name of piety. The lucky few that can muster the necessary payments, vote with their feet and join the millions of illegal migrants that are preyed upon by human traffickers each year. The unlucky are forced to choose between death, beggary and fighting for one side or the other in the interminable war that has come to define Somalia. This conference will, as did all of its predecessors, focus upon the symptoms of Somalia’s malaise – the anarchy, lack of governance, corruption of the self-serving and self-appointed leadership, the nihilist menace of Al-Shabaab and maritime piracy – without ever addressing the root cause of the disease.

    Addressing the root cause of the disease requires asking the question: in the absence of the irredentist dream, what is the basis for the existence of a Somali state, and on what terms will the people of Somalia, particularly the young, accord to such a state their political consent? This question cannot be sensibly or productively debated and concluded in a couple of days at a swank conference hall in London by unelected and unrepresentative Somali ‘politicians’ in the pay of the UN, senior representatives of the foreign donors (however well intentioned), and senior members of the international aid nomenclature. These questions can only be sensibly and productively debated and concluded by the people of Somalia through their genuine, indigenous socio-political and cultural leadership. Such a genuine, grass-root, Somali-owned process does not lend itself readily to Western notions and perceptions of structured political debate and negotiation. Rather, it harks back to traditional Somali culture of clan meetings, dispute settlement and peace making under the galool tree that has endured for hundreds of years. These meetings and discussions are open to all, although respect and deference is afforded to the elders. However to quote a Somali adage pertaining to such meetings, participants are urged to ‘da’ ha raadininee, dunta raadiya’, or seek and follow wisdom, not longevity.

    To return to the issue of Somaliland’s attendance of the London conference, it is accepted wisdom among most Somalilanders, that attendance should be rebuffed. This is largely an emotional, knee-jerk reaction to the arrogance/ignorance of Britain in referring to the country as a region of Somalia and then exerting strong pressure for attendance upon the Silanyo regime, which it has successfully inveigled into attending previous meetings for Somalia to Silanyo’s domestic political cost. The overwhelming majority of Somaliland citizens, and especially the young who have much less attachment to Britain and no fond memories of the relatively benign colonial protectorate administration, would like their government to cock a snoot at Albion’s perfidy and shun attendance. However, this would be a mistake since an emotional response to another’s slight (intentional or otherwise), while often satisfying, is rarely wise and almost never in one’s long term self interest.

    Instead, the Silanyo administration should attend the conference with the aim of telling truth to power and challenging the international community to honestly address why the Somali state collapsed in the aftermath of the Siyad Barre dictatorship and in doing so return ownership of the process of reconciliation and establishment of a new, 21st century rationale for the state to the people of Somalia. Somaliland has unique experience of this type of genuine, grass-root, democratic peace making and reconciliation rooted in local culture, traditions and religious faith. The Borama Conference of 1992, which laid the foundations for the re-emergence of Somaliland as a peaceful, democratic and free republic lasted for over four months, was rooted in local culture and history, ensured that all sections and groups within society, including those historically not accorded a voice, were represented and were heard. In addition, this conference called upon the skills, experience and knowledge of those from the diaspora as equal citizens and not as fortune or position-seeking carpet baggers. The representatives/participants at this conference included clan elders and leaders, traditional Sultans, intellectuals and poets, business people and professionals.

    The conference had no formal agenda, but everyone knew that the central topic of discussion was the terms upon which the people of this country were prepared to live together in peace and fraternity in a post-dictatorship, post-irredentist future. The first item that was agreed, which set the tone and stage for the subsequent reconciliation and agreement to form a representative government, was that all previous political and clan disputes between the peoples and clans of Somaliland, whether rooted in the defunct dictatorship or in the subsequent liberation war, were null and void, were consigned to history and that it was ‘xaraam’, a sin, to ever raise them again. The people of Somaliland have a lot to offer in assisting the international community in developing a workable road map for genuine reconciliation in Somalia, and they are prepared to put this experience, expertise and their good offices as an honest broker between the warring parties on the table.

    However, the international community has to come to the realisation that the continued failures of its efforts towards re-establishing a viable Somali state over the last two decades are neither accidental nor due to any bad luck or lack of effort. Rather, they have been doomed to failure because they have sought to paper over the cracks of a political edifice that cannot be resurrected because its very foundation has disappeared. Somaliland’s willingness to play the role of peace broker, impartial adjudicator and host of the reconciliation process for its brothers to the south is genuine and heartfelt. Equally, its commitment to its sovereignty and independence is unconditional and also genuine and is not subject to question or debate by others. Somaliland won back its independence and freedom at the barrel of a gun, after a long war, and with the precious blood and treasure of its people. Somaliland’s freedom and recovery of its sovereignty was neither negotiated at a conference table nor granted by fiat, and it will not be surrendered on any terms. International recognition may not come today, or this year, and the powers represented at the conference may choose to ignore the will of the people of Somaliland for as long as they wish, but this will neither deter them from their chosen destiny nor dismay them from their choice.

    It does not often come to pass that a leader is presented by history with a chance to represent the wishes of his people and the justice of their cause to the international community by issuing a challenge, so honest, so heartfelt and so rooted in the basic humanity shared by all peoples, that it marks a turning point in international diplomacy and modern history. Such a moment was presented to Emperor Haile Selassie at the League of Nations in 1936 and the challenge he issued to a world community dominated by European colonial powers on behalf of the Ethiopian people suffering under a brutal onslaught by fascist Italy, brought a destitute, backward and impoverished African country into the League as a charter member and changed the course of history. In 1974, Yasser Arafat went to the UN and said: ‘Today I come bearing an olive branch in one hand, and the freedom fighter’s gun in the other. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand. I repeat, do not let the olive branch fall from my hand.’ The world never saw the struggle for Palestinian rights and the creation of a Palestinian state through the same prism again.

    President Silanyo has such an opportunity at the London conference. He must challenge the world to deny the self evident will of the people of Somaliland and their unique achievement of creating a democratic, post-irredentist Somali state, imperfect as it may be, adjacent to the longest-running failed state in modern history. He must point out that the denial of Somaliland’s rights and the continued consignment of the people of Somalia to a never-ending nightmare of anarchy, terrorism and war are two sides of the same coin. The Somali people have the ingenuity and the will to solve their seemingly intractable problems if provided by the international community with the means. The missing ingredient is the imagination and creativity to step back and let the Somalis do it for themselves. Somaliland’s message to the London conference is simple: if the definition of madness is repeating the same action again and again yet expecting a different result each time, then we are your sanity pill; ignore us at your peril.

    The world may ignore Somaliland’s right to recover its sovereignty, but we have the solution to our brothers’ troubles, and we stand ready with an open hand to offer it, if you will let us. The prolonged misery of Somalia and Somaliland’s continued prodigality are linked and both the result of the lack of imagination and creativity on the part of the international community, which has for too long consigned the ‘Somali issue’ to the back burner. If the world is now serious about finding a solution for the problems of the Somali people of the Horn of Africa, then it should open not only its heart, but also its mind and its ears, because Somaliland has been shouting the solution for years to deaf ears. Somaliland’s attendance of the London Conference must challenge the status quo, not only with respect to its own situation, but also with respect to the situation in Somalia. Somaliland, as the first post-irredentist Somali nation-state, must deliver this message and deliver it emphatically. Who knows, forcing the world to properly address the ‘Somali Issue’ may just save the conference and save the credibility of Albion.

    Ahmed M.I. is a Somalilander who grew up in Europe. Egal has a BA (Economics & Politics) from Warwick University and an MA (Area Studies [African Development]) from London University

  99. Mr. Ambassador, I would like to ask you one question and I hope that you give me an answer.. my question is: some Somali media outlets speculate that the aim of London conference is “ to put Somalia under the African Union trusteeship or international trusteeship “.. is that true?

  100. Dear Matt,

    The best advice is, for the short term political solution, let us truly support current road map mentally and materially to end the transition having one international approach in place. for the long term solution, let us develop a democratic, peaceful culture in the country. The best way to do so is to support a Somali political party led by capable, honest, educated Somalia politicians.

    Thanks

  101. Hi Ambassador, I am a young recent university graduate of Somali descent here in the West. I want to say that I welcome the renewed interest in the plight of my country of birth and wish to thank, in my humble capacity, the United Kingdom as well as the international partners and entities of relevance in this issue for their continued involvement to help steer the Somali Republic out of this unfortunate situation. My family comes from the south of Somalia, and in particular the Gedo region, which has really moved far among the southern regions in the drive for freedom and security in an insecure landscape. My question is in what capacity will issues affecting regions like Gedo, at the heart of the security problem, be brought up in the London conference and what plans are being made to aid political, social, and humanitarian normalization once the security problem has been lifted and what help will be provided in that process? Thank you.

  102. Well, without encouraging or promoting a true democratic culture and process, there is a very little chance for long-term political stability and institutional-building in Somalia.

    I worked hard to understand dynamics and Somali masses regarding their future during my brief position as a Senior Constitutional Adviser and head of Public Consultation unit. If international community and UN is truly willing to plant long-term peace crop than they have to encourage, promote and assist democratic process such as building a democratic, moderate and forward looking Political party to exactly counter and confront ideological warfare going on in Somalia.

  103. I am forwarding an article written by a die hard Isaaqi clan secessionist by the name of Mohamud Tani, who no matter how much preferential assistance Britain has been providing to them, yet complains and says, “Britain always left a legacy of trouble”. This is not an isolated opinion but one shared by all the Isaaq secessionists as they believe in the mentality of “my way or the high way”. Anyone who is against or questions their illogical thinking and demands has to expect this. . The article was published today on Wardheerenews Website http://www.wardheernews.com/Articles_12/Feb/Tani/03_to_go_or_not_to_go.html)

    Here is the full text of the article:

    Never trust the British with your fate. Never! From Palestine and Israel to Kashmir and Pakistan to Rhodesia and South Arica, all the way to Haud and reserved Area the Foreign office and its bureaucrats were all throughout history on the wrong side of issues. Britain always left a legacy of trouble. It has no history of ever solving one. Did you ever detect the true colours of Tony Blair before the Iraq war? Jomo Kenyatta once said “My British friends came to our land with a Bible in their hands. They told us to shut our eyes for a moment. When we opened our eyes, they had the land and we had the Bible.“ Such is the British treachery. They are telling us now to shut our eyes. Trust the Americans. They always mean what they say. Do not ever get caught by the hypocrisy that built an empire through sheer cunning and deceit.

    Well, all this would not have happened had the Somaliland government gave to the British officials the standard answer that we had for the world since the first day of the existence of Somaliland – Somaliland will only negotiate with a one government in the South. Our present government tried to be clever. They also needed some assistance for our cash strapped little country. They went to London and to the horror of everybody in Somaliland our Government was in the same table with Puntland and Gslmudug. Silanyo and his Government did in one step to reduce the standing of Somaliland from a De Facto country to the status of a clan or subclan. They accepted to be In the same protocol with Majeerteen (Puntland), Habar/Gidir Saad (Galmudug) Habar/ Gidir Ayr (Ahlu Suna Wa Jamaa). They again did the same in Nairobi. Then all disaster followed. Our clever government were not so clever after all. It was a classic case of the hyena dating the wrong guy. Maybe they got a little cash, but they threw away the demand that we be treated as what we are: a NATION and no other way. Nobody took us seriously after that. Now we are being expected to come to London again and the President t himself has to appear and sit in the same line with Puntland and Galmug presidents as a representative of a region called Somaliland that is in Somalia. Sh. Shariif will be seated among the world leaders. Siilanyo being a member of other regional delegations from Somalia will be sitting behind him. What a disgrace!! Imagine seeing that picture in the CNN and the BBC.

    Apart from the external affairs fiasco it caused, the downgrading of Somaliland to level of Majeerteen, Saad and Ayr has also caused an internal disintegration. Every political opportunist now wants to go to the Conference of the clans in London. This would not have happened had we not participated two of the first four preparatory meeting. Had we stayed out altogether as we always used to (before we started to be clever) , no one from Somaliland would have dreamed neither Khatumo nor Awdal nor Makhir nor others that are in pipeline. By downgrading the status of Somaliland Mr. Silanyo has opened a Pandora box. I Quote here Faisal Waraabe commenting when on the first time that we participated the London preparatory Conference. He Said “Mr Silanyo Listen .You are My president only in the context of Somaliland. Outside that you are not . If you go again to a table where Somali clans are meeting. Yes Listen . You only represent your sub-clan ,and I will go representing mine” That is what Faisal said that day. Now are you surprised at Ali Khaliif ? In the name of fairness let us give the devil his due.
    Now what we need is sobriety and level headedness. Qualities we lack so much now in Somaliland. Let us weigh arguments for or against going to London.

    Those who say let us go are stating their case like this. Forty or more world leaders are coming. Somaliland will have a golden opportunity to state its case to the international audience and it’s a chance we cannot miss. That would have been a very strong argument if the question of Somaliland and its future was in the Agenda. World leaders who are coming where not made aware of a discussion about Somaliland. How different it is, how good it is and how it needs to be recognized? The Agenda is clear. It is about Piracy, Shabaab , Famine and the formation of a National inclusive Government. Nowhere in the Agenda is Somaliland mentioned good or bad.

    On the contrary the preamble of the Agenda stated that the Territorial Integrity of Somalia will be maintained. Sh. Shariif and his Government will be speaking to the delegates representing all the Somali delegates there including us. Regional presidents will not speak. If World leaders give Regional presidents a photo op that is the best they can get out of the conference. I hope that is not what our leaders want. A picture with Dave Cameron.!! That can be arranged by one Somalilander who is a resident at the Prime Ministers riding in UK.

    Now let us look at the other side of the coin. I believe if we do not go to the conference in London, the British Prime Minister will not be happy. He will be angry at his lower officials that they let him down. That the International community will see that the conference that the PM lent his name has a great hole in it. The PM will see the lower British officials misrepresented the case of Somaliland and did not give it the weight that it was due. The World will ask themselves who is that who did not come. The answer readily comes to our advantage. The entire international friends and journalist supporter that we gathered in these twenty years will fill the void. Look who is not being accommodated here? The most peaceful, the most stable, the most democratic, the only people that defeated Shabaab, the only people those Pirates are afraid of, the best is missing. Only then will our demands be listened to. That is the way we should play the game.

    Mohamud Tani

    1. Mr Keenadiid, People have freedom of though and an individual such as M Tani is entitled to his. However, he isn’t an elected offical in any capacity thus I don’t get the reason you feel it should have a reflection on the entire nation of Somaliland.

      Secondly, Somaliland government is attending the meeting much to many citizens dis-satisfaction. I wouldn’t blame to be apprehensive judging by the recent events that unfolded after this meeting was announced.

      Finally, I personally find that all these events further highlights to many of us the level of insecurity that still remains between the two countries. If peace and reconcilliation is far from being achieved. Instead rivlary and insecurity has increased. It highlights to deep suspicion and lack of trust that still remains from the lack of justice on both ends. Some may believe this will benefit them or the other but it only drives deeper wedges. Some oblivious of the tell tale signs culminating from their own comments which is achieveing the opposite of what they wanted?

  104. His Excellency Ambassador Matt, Congratulations on your promotion and appointment from senior Representative to Somalia to the ambassadorial post which is really challenging to unravel the mystery and misery plagued Somalia over the last twenty years. One requires, among other things, to be tactile, diplomatic, firm and enduring to succeed the difficulty Somali tasks ahead. We wish you every success in your new job.

    I would also like to draw your attention that weak TFG and Some of their own international handlers are trying to discredit the London Conference and spreading rumours among the Somali people under the pretext o f their own hidden agenda which is to siphon off the meagre humanitarian assistance to the Somali people and staying in power as long as they could, which means many more years to prolong the hardship and the suffering of the Somali people.

    They have been lobbying on IGAD member countries, AU countries, Arab Countries and European Countries particularly Italy to persuade their agenda. They are arguing the following to name but a few:-

    1. They (TFG) are the sole representative for Somalia and Somalis as and no other country would directly or indirectly get involve the Somali issue without them being to the forefront. They also create individuals who create mini-states in sub clan lines for the eighteen regions to claim legitimacy
    2. They (TFG) say that TFG have made tangible success to capture more areas without even acknowledging the International Community and African Troops on the ground.

    3. They (TFG) are vehemently defending the so-called the “Roadmap” of which they think would guarantee their return but we all know that it is not inclusive.

    4. They (TFG) are spreading rumours saying that the UK Government is advocating Neo-colonism and unislamic regulations in which the Somalis would not be included to have a say.

    5. They (TFG) are down playing the importance of the London Conference and Sometimes not mention the UK efforts at all ( point in case prime ministers press conference in Nairobi).

    6. They (TFG) are trying to drive a wedge between Britain and Italy to persuade Rome to have a leading role in the meeting as Italy is the only country that can understand the problems of South Somali as it was the former colony as they claim.

    We all know that whatever excuses and pretexts the TFG put up are not the interests of the Somali people nor they serve to create lasting solution and peace in Somalia.

  105. I thank the United Kingdom for presenting the upcoming Conference. Unlike the UN, EU and most major world powers, the UK is providing an opportunity for real dialogue between stakeholders. The clamor of opposing voices has been deafening, and I’m sure strong egos will attempt to override each other at the Conference. My hope is that Somalis will listen to and respect each other, and find areas of commonality. The issues are complex, but win-win resolution of conflict is always possible. Ultimately, effective clan and regional dispute-resolving mechanisms are needed. I commend the United Kingdom’s compassion, initiative, and these actions toward peace.

  106. Matt,

    Congruatulations for being nominated the new Ambassador to Somalia. UK’s move to re-establish dipolamtic ties with Somalia is a game changer. We appreciate UK’s committment to helping Somalia reconstitute into functioning and vibrant nation once again.

  107. Mr. Baugh,

    Congratulations are in order for your recent promotion. I wish both you and the country that you are now charged to help succeed good luck. I hope this is an indication of UK’s serious interest to re-engage Somalia and an opportunity for my beloved country that perhaps we are now closer to rising up again after more than two decades of endless war and chaos and assume our rightful place among the nations of the world.

    The London conference offers particular opportunity to Somalia if managed carefully and with thoughtful and pragmatic skill. It represents the West’s realization that Somalia’s failed state status threatens not only itself and its neighbors but the world as whole.

    When problems are as large and seamlessly intractable as they are in Somalia, it is easy to give up and feel hopeless. But as the great Nelson Mandela said and I am paraphrasing, “problems seem impossible to solve until it’s done” Somalia’s issues are not insurmountable. But they require courage and bold leadership, which has been lacking amongst the international community as it has been absent amongst the Somali stakeholders, to overcome over two decades of misery and mistrust.

    So here are my thoughts:

    1. The process must be open, transparent, inclusive and above all, solution oriented (enough about diagnosing known issue).
    2. The international community, Britain in this particular situation, should stop doing things for Somalia and start doing things with Somalis and Somalia. This means working side-by-side with the Somali stakeholders (many questionable as they are) in the design, deliberation and formulation of ideas and opinions. Having said that, I think it is important to have an outside and neutral part that can play a facilitator role because unfortunately we still have a huge trust gap.
    3. Stop waiting for a magic solution and celebrate and prop up small gains and successes. This means working directly with leaders and areas that demonstrated enough leadership and credibility to be a partner for the betterment of their community and their nation as whole.
    4. Hold spoilers accountable (and this must include other nations, particularly neighboring nations that often emphasize their narrow geo-political interests over the long-term national and international interests).
    5. Empower non-traditional leaders that are genuine and pragmatic to play a bigger role….the problem we have had over the last few decades is too many empty suites sat on the table claiming to be legitimate leaders when in reality they have little substance (or style) to contribute. Furthermore, there is explosion of so-called political entities because too often individuals feel this will help them gain political leverage but in reality it contributes to the worsening of the situation.
    6. Beware of lofty goals and promises….the problems are not insurmountable but they are not easy either. You need to be realistic what success would like and not setup for a failure.

    And think I will stop here for now.

    Best luck to Somalia and to the conference. And once again, congratulations to your new post…hope to see you relocate to inside Somalia proper soon!

    Axmed Abdirahman – USA

  108. Matt Congratulation
    we somalilander hope you good job remember that you are not only ambassador to Somalia but also Somaliland and hop till we get our recognition in coming near future you will work us closed friend

  109. Dear Matt
    Congratulations and best wishes for the new post you been appointed. I hope your new role and your experiences will put you a more suitable position and give you better opportunity to do more and make real difference for the ordinary peace loving Somalis and political dilemma in their state. Somali people are now coming to their senses, well it seems like that to say the least. There is a sense of normality in many parts of Somalia for the first time in 21 years. It is a good time to get involved, put more investment and do more work on the recovery, normalisation and development.

    The political process needs to be fair, inclusive and accountable. Individual clans and/or ethnic groups residing own territories are commonly accepted political constituencies that made up the current state of Somalia. The clan system dominates Somali politics past and present. This means Somali clans and/or major sub-clans must a voice and fair representation in the political process. Any exclusion as well as ethnically or politically motivated coalition of different clans failed to work for the last twenty years and surely remain too risky to even try again. Open and inclusive political system providing equal access and representation for all ethnic/clan groups is the positive way forward. To build accountable and democratic political system for Somali people one has to build the same system for their clans first. The fact is, you cannot have one without the other.

    However, the political process have to have clearly defined flexibility to accommodate and give equal and fair representation to other sections of the Somali society that clan/ethnic system is not the local political norm such as the southern farming communities and residents of major historic and coastal cities.

    One vitally important reminder for British politicians is to provide unbiased and equitably distributed support to all political groups in Somalia and avoid any acts that favour or seem to favour particular clans. Another politically and socially sensitive issue in the politics of 21st century is relate more in today’s world and keep away from anything linked with or associated with the colonial policies and practices of the last century.

  110. Dear Matt,

    Let me first congratulate you for your new role of being an ambassador to the number one failed state in the globe. I hope you all the best for the tasks ahead.
    My name is Mahamoud Ahmed, Conflict Resolution expert, specialty on Somalia and Horn Africa from University of Bradford, Peace Department, UK. Mostly, I do not take part in Somali debates as most of them are on symptoms rather the root causes or rather on daily issues than on long lasting solutions.
    Different from all previous discussions, I now felt it is the right time and right audience to share my academic research based findings and comments on the conflict in Somalia.
    To come closer to my points, there are three possible scenarios and way outs on the conflict in the Somalia:
    1. Somalis were all in one before 1884 and they should be brought back to gather again
    2. Somalis had to accept this division as many other ethnic groups and integrate & live peacefully to the countries to belong now i.e Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti and divide the two united Somali Land – now know as Somalia and Somaliland.
    3. Somalis had to form clan based States and each clan had to form a state on the border of their clan men.
    These three scenarios are now on the table. Now let us analysis and look each one and its positive contribution or exacerbation to the conflict in Somalia that had also affected the globe negatively.
    1. First Scenario, it is not visible and possible in the near future or long run. The dream of bring back the greater five Somalis very highly unlikely to happen for number of reasons:
    a) It will open a new page of debate for legality of the whole of Africa borders and the globe
    b) Ethiopia will never accept to let Zone Five of Ethiopia join to Republic of Somalia for security purposes
    c) Kenya will not also let Somalis is Northeast Kenya go away as it seen parts of territory
    d) Djibouti will never accept giving it sovereignty and join Republic of Somalia
    e) The People of Somaliland are since 1991 declared self independence and highly unlikely to remain united with Somalia and being part of Greater Somalia Republic
    2. Second Scenario, to separate and recognize Somalia and Somaliland as two different African nations is the way out of the mess and confusion as long as I am concerned because of the following number of reasons:
    a) Somalis cannot all be brought together in one Greater Somalia as described in the first scenarios reasons.
    b) If they cannot be brought together support them accept and live with the reality of divisions of 1884 borders
    c) What this mean then:
    i. This means Somalis Djibouti should remains as they are now and only see Somalia as an African country.
    ii. Somalis in Ethiopia and Kenya should not wait upcoming greater Somalia but accept that they are Ethiopian and Kenyan respectively which they are not now.
    iii. Somalia should accept that greater Somalia is not visible and achievable and even if it is obtained it will exacerbate wars and violence conflict in the region and affect world peace and stability. They should also accept that they will be better off if they let other Somalis separate from Somalia.
    iv. Somaliland should be recognized on the border line of 1884.
    v. If Somaliland is recognized, it will bring peace and prosperous to not only Somalis but to the entire region as it will kill and bury the idea that caused the mess the region and particularly Somalis are in now of bringing all Somalis back together.
    vi. This will cut a huge budget of the regional countries use on defense and will rather use on development and tackle the cycle droughts and famines in the Horn and East Africa.
    vii. It will create integrated, happy and live peacefully side by side societies in the region that is constructive partner to peace and security of the world.

    3. The third and final scenario of forming clan based States within the Republic of Somalia. This is again another way of claiming back of Greater Somalia because of the following reasons:
    a) No Somali clan resides only in one border line of 1884. So creating clan based states will again mean refusing to country borders and claiming Greater Somalis. Let us take examples of how clan based states could jeopardize international border between countries in the region.
    i. Galmudug State of Somalia on the bases of Habargadir of Hawiye clan is not perceptible. This sub- clan of Hawiye also resides in Ethiopia. Then creating such border bases will result claiming parts of Ethiopia and eventually call for a war between Ethiopia and Galmudug.
    ii. Puntland State of Somalia on the bases of Harti land. Harti resides in Ethiopia and Somaliland. Already there is great concern and tension between Somaliland and Puntland on the bases of Puntland that had to claims regions (Sool, Sanaag and Ayn- SSC) from the 1884 border lines of Somaliland.
    iii. Isaaq Land for instance, if they wish to form one, cannot be possible as Isaaq also extends to Ethiopia and Djibouti.
    iv. Gadabursi Land or Awdal State and Khatumo or Dhubahante of Harti land is the same too as they both expand in Ethiopia and Djibouti.
    v. In all this scenario of clan base will not be long lasting solutions.

    All in all, the only way out, is Somalis to accept on the international border lands of 1884 and live peacefully with their neighbors.

    1. I think you are confusing Somali unity and Greater Somalia, somali unity is keeping the Somalia borders from Ras Kamboni to Saylac, as for Greater Somalia, well that is for the UN to demarcate the final borders between Ethiopia and Somalia which are provisional at the moment. I believe our borders with Kenya and Djibouti are sorted. No gov of Somalia will be invading it’s neighbours in order to solve border disputes. That era is gone with the last military dictatorship.

  111. First congratulation matt
    If Somaliland participate the conference it is only participate like independent country like neighbour country we will not site to small regions like piracy putland or powerless so named TFG group

  112. First of all thanks Matt Baugh for this article and articles before that which you have wrote. Thanks for taking the time to read the comments of Somali Diaspora. Also I would like to congratulate you for your new post. It is my understanding; Britain has appointed you as a new ambassador to Somalia, resuming diplomatic presence after more than 20 years of upheaval in the Country. This was done in coinciding with the Visit of William Hague.

    Thanks for also being impartial and taking in all the views and comments from all people. As by now you have noticed, there are many Somalis living abroad and majority of them have small hope from London Conference that there would be a cooperative and comprehensive road-map planned for Somalia. When people have gone through the kind of history Somalia been through it is understanding to see some of that pessimistic way of thinking. However I would like to take this opportunity to remind people the only way to resolve a problem is being optimistic rather than being pessimistic about the issue at hand. Somalia faces many problems, and first issue is lack of individual leadership from the Somali community. We need charismatic leaders and that is the responsibility of every individual, if they feel they can do something positive now is the time to go back to Somalia at this window of opportunity. We are in window of hope. We also welcome any support and assistance any foreign government can give. Also we applaud and commend the hard work the British government is doing to restore peace to a land that doesn’t even recongnise what peace looks like. People need to realize we can overcome the problems we have and they need to believe change can come about. Not because the British government is involved in the Somali peace process but people and communities need to believe that we can resolve our differences and we can make a stand for what we believe in as people.

    A comprehensive road-map is needed and it must include reconciliation of all Somali people. Where ever they maybe. The failed peaces process in the past failed because they failed to bring together the right people. I believe a good decision has been made calling on our brothers from Somali-LAND. It is a step in the right direction as any Somali peace requires all parties whether they are in South or North.

    Now as for the Road-Map itself I suggest first to look at the current situation at the moment, it is important to reminder everyone the tasks at hand. We Somali’s tend to take our eye off the ball when it comes to big issues:

    1.Displaced people – Tens of thousands of Somalis are dying from malnutrition as the worst drought in 60 years causing a massive food shortages and famine in many parts of the country. The United Nations declared a famine in lower Shabelle and southern Bakool, where malnutrition rates are higher than anywhere else in the world. In some areas, more than half the population are malnourished. More than 30 percent of Somali children are acutely malnourished.

    2.Extremism Ideology and Terrorist Groups – Al-Shabab – Arabic name known as “Youth” formed as a radical offshoot of the Union of Islamic Courts in 2006. Affiliated to al-Qaeda. Killed and tortured hundreds of Somali innocent women and children. In fact abduct children for their Jihad cause to fight against the Somali Government including AMISOM troops.

    3.Lack of leadership and Political infighting – Continuation of fist fighting among parliamentarians and other Somali lawmakers does not constitute a good leadership or governance. On top of that the high corruption and bad management of civil services, as well as not paying wages to Somali Police, Military, doctors and nurses, all those people who are risking their lives for the sake of their country are just acting in patriotic fashion and are not getting paid. Also the majority of the political instability in Somalia is based an old political design one that divides people and keep us thinking in backward fashion. Currently the TFG establishment is based on the “4.5 Formula” which they claim was designed to balance the clans, contribute to representation and influence of power in Somalia between the four major clan- and coalition of minority clans. The 4.5 Formula is not a Somali political initiative however it was initiated at a previous reconciliation conference held in Djibouti in 2000 by neighboring governments. The Ethiopians claim historically this type of power-sharing method was successful in uniting their many ethnic groups, and President Ismail Omar Guelleh, the President of Djibouti, encouraged this division of power. Also the Somali Parliament seats are also divided under the rules of the 4.5 Formula. This political system (CLAN-POLITICS) which doesn’t benefit the majority of the Somali people and just a collective few who are uneducated, consider themselves the elite and want to stay in power in some dubious ways, needs to be looked at, examined we need a more modern revised, fair, collective, benefiting the majority system. Whether that is political parties or one single party but a system that is fair and collective.

    4.Somali piracy – Pirates have been operating in the Gulf of Aden, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, for several years, prompting world powers to send their navies to safeguard international trade but still piracy exists and this way of tackling the problem will not resolve any of the problems presented today by piracy.

    5.Lack of Reconciliation efforts by the current TFG government. This is posing a serious question. Whether the TFG wants to maintain status quo or they seriously mean business.
    I think these are just the tip of the iceberg and there are further more issues. However just to highlight the task ahead it isn’t easy.
    I think the Road-Map should consider all of the above and more. How to bring the refugees back home; make Diaspora one of the stake holders in any conference so they have a responsibility as the ought to have to bring in some of that brain power that was drained out of the country for the last 2 decades. We need all Somalis to participate in solving the Somali crises and overlooking the educated Diaspora and just inviting politicians that were not elected by the people and may not represent all the people is not a sign in good direction. We need a more comprehensive meeting whether it is in London or in Somalia to have all the people from different clans, intellectuals, young, old basically a representation of Somali Community not just few political leaders. There has to be an open forum to discuss all solution with international community but the international community is just there to mediate the discussion and make sure we have a platform of openness, fairness and equal rights.

  113. Eloquently presented ..must read article. ……

    Somaliland and the London conference on Somalia
    Ahmed M.I. Egal

    The upcoming London Conference on Somalia, and the UK’s urging of the Somaliland government to attend, has understandably generated a lot of debate and comment within the Somaliland community, both within and outside the country. One of the stated objectives of the conference, according to Matt Baugh, senior representative for Somalia, is to ‘…reinforce the relative stability in areas of Somalia, such as Somaliland and Puntland and in the south…’.

    This statement has, again understandably, aroused the ire of the people of Somaliland since they recovered their sovereignty from the erstwhile Republic of Somalia in 1991, and have steadfastly maintained their distance from the anarchy, state collapse and war that have engulfed Somalia ever since, despite repeated attempts often involving violence (e.g. Al-Shabaab’s attacks in Hargeisa and upon expatriates in Somaliland) to drag them into this unending maelstrom.

    Somaliland and its people expected more from their former colonial protector, and it is either a reflection of the insensitivity of the current Foreign and Colonial Office to the aspirations of the people of Somaliland, or simply of their lack of knowledge of the politics of the Horn of Africa, that they refer to Somaliland as a region of Somalia, as Puntland is. The interpretation that many hard line, anti-Somaliland politicians within Somalia have given this British insensitivity or ignorance, is that the British have coerced the Somaliland government to attend the conference as a regional authority, just like Puntland, Galmudug etc. Whatever the explanation for this impolitic language, and it is likely to be a combination of all three outlined herein, the fact is that the British government has put the Silanyo administration in a very difficult spot indeed. If they attend the conference, as they have stated they will, then they will reap the wrath of the vast majority of their people; if they don’t, and they may yet be forced to a volte face, then they will look weak and will reap the wrath of Albion through curtailment of aid and a downgrade of bilateral ties.

    Leaving aside the issue of Somaliland’s attendance for the moment, it is instructive to consider what this latest conference on Somalia is meant to achieve and the likelihood of it achieving its stated objectives, which have been set out as follows:

    – Security: sustainable funding for the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), and support for Somali security and justice sectors.
    – Political Process: agreement to what should succeed the transitional institutions in Mogadishu in August 2012 and the establishment of a Joint Financial Management Board.
    – Local Stability: a coordinated international package of support to Somalia’s regions.
    – Counter-terrorism: renewed commitment to tackle collectively the terrorist threat emanating from Somalia.
    – Piracy: breaking the piracy business model.
    – Humanitarian: renewed commitment to tackling Somalia’s humanitarian crisis.
    – International coordination: agreement on improved international handling of Somalia issues.

    This is quite a challenge and it is clear that no single conference can be expected to achieve these gargantuan goals, so we must question what the British government actually hopes to achieve at this conference. According to Chris Allen, UK deputy ambassador to Ethiopia, more than 40 senior government officials and multilateral organizations, including French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, are expected to attend the conference. Clearly, Prime Minister David Cameron and Foreign Secretary William Hague have invested considerable political capital and much personal credibility in this conference.

    The fact is that there have been some 17 or 18 conferences (depending upon one’s criteria on what constitutes a conference) held to effect reconciliation and establish a credible, effective government for Somalia since 1991, including the latest one earlier this month in Garowe. All of these conferences can be said to have failed miserably since Somalia remains the very definition of a failed state with no central state authority in control of the country. Yet, the British government has raised expectations internationally and within East Africa by hosting this conference and prevailing upon heads of state and government, the foreign donor community and the current Somali leadership, such as it is, to attend. On the face of it, given the near debacle of abject failure at the recent Garowe conference, which was only avoided by the UN acceding to the opposing demands of the two camps into which the participants divided regarding the basis upon which a future government of Somalia would be formed, the prospects for success seem rather dim.

    So what do the British have up their sleeve, as it were, that leads them to believe that this conference will bear the sweet fruit of success where all the others have failed? Firstly, they have been dangling the enticing carrot of increased international aid for ‘peaceful’ regions, which has resulted in a sudden proliferation of regional states announced by aspirant diaspora would-be ‘leaders’ seeking their fleeting 15 minutes of fame (or perhaps infamy might be a more apt term) on the world stage, or in this case, the London stage and a briefcase of money – courtesy of the foreign donors. This opportunistic gold rush of regional statehood has even infected the peaceful parts of the erstwhile Somali Republic (i.e. Somaliland and Puntland) with the recent moves to legitimise the dangerous, diaspora-driven, political mischief-making disguised as Awdal State and Khatumo 2.

    Thus, while the direct responsibility for the recent deaths of security personnel and civilians in Buhoodle in Somaliland can be laid at the door of the naked ambition and greed of the Somali Diaspora carpet-baggers seeking a place at the London conference, the British government must accept its indirect, if unintentional, culpability. To quote a much-misused political axiom of our times, actions have consequences.

    Secondly, with the support of the US and UN Security Council (UNSC), the British hope to revisit the agreement reached at Garowe wherein all things were promised to all parties. At Garowe, a further interim period of four years was agreed, during which Somalia would be ‘governed’ by a new interim government formed on the basis of the 4.5 clan model upon which the present TFG was formed. Thereafter, in 2016, a permanent government for Somalia will be formed based upon regional representation and not the 4.5 clan structure. The foreign donor community had intended that the Garowe conference would form the permanent government that has been pushed back four years, although any rational observer with knowledge of Somali history and politics, particularly during the period since the collapse of the Siyad Barre dictatorship, would have seen the chasm between these intentions and the hard reality on the ground. What, in effect, the foreign donors were attempting to effect was to construct the edifice of a permanent government upon quicksand, since the basis upon which a new Somali state was to be formed had not even been addressed.

    The London Conference seeks to revisit the political agreement on the formation of a permanent government for Somalia, because the issue was ducked at Garowe, and the prospect of another four years of anarchy and political stasis under yet another interim government is unpalatable to the foreign donors. However, since the core issues underlying the collapse of the Somali state have not been addressed – and are not tabled to be addressed at the conference – it is destined to fail. These issues revolve around the rationale for the existence of the state itself, i.e. what is the underlying basis for political consent in Somalia? The rationale for the creation of the erstwhile Republic was the irredentist dream of Greater Somalia, and this dream has been consigned to the dustbin of history for a whole host of reasons, both internal and external, which are beyond the scope of this paper to delve into. However, despite the lingering passion of some Somalis for this mirage of the past, and the false, in-name-only adherence of some regional powers seeking to advance their own self interested, political calculations, this discredited and empty irredentism can no longer further the political aspirations and hopes for a better future of a new generation of Somalis.

    Succeeding generations of young Somalis, which have been robbed of any and all opportunity for betterment while observing both their own misery and the changing world around them are no longer inspired by dreams of Greater Somalia. The call to their political loyalty is to their sub-clan and the call to their faith is to a medieval nihilism masquerading as Islam. They demand a life and the chance for betterment now and a faith that connects them to humanity and human progress, not one that not only denies it, but cuts them off from it in the name of piety. The lucky few that can muster the necessary payments, vote with their feet and join the millions of illegal migrants that are preyed upon by human traffickers each year. The unlucky are forced to choose between death, beggary and fighting for one side or the other in the interminable war that has come to define Somalia. This conference will, as did all of its predecessors, focus upon the symptoms of Somalia’s malaise – the anarchy, lack of governance, corruption of the self-serving and self-appointed leadership, the nihilist menace of Al-Shabaab and maritime piracy – without ever addressing the root cause of the disease.

    Addressing the root cause of the disease requires asking the question: in the absence of the irredentist dream, what is the basis for the existence of a Somali state, and on what terms will the people of Somalia, particularly the young, accord to such a state their political consent? This question cannot be sensibly or productively debated and concluded in a couple of days at a swank conference hall in London by unelected and unrepresentative Somali ‘politicians’ in the pay of the UN, senior representatives of the foreign donors (however well intentioned), and senior members of the international aid nomenclature. These questions can only be sensibly and productively debated and concluded by the people of Somalia through their genuine, indigenous socio-political and cultural leadership. Such a genuine, grass-root, Somali-owned process does not lend itself readily to Western notions and perceptions of structured political debate and negotiation. Rather, it harks back to traditional Somali culture of clan meetings, dispute settlement and peace making under the galool tree that has endured for hundreds of years. These meetings and discussions are open to all, although respect and deference is afforded to the elders. However to quote a Somali adage pertaining to such meetings, participants are urged to ‘da’ ha raadininee, dunta raadiya’, or seek and follow wisdom, not longevity.

    To return to the issue of Somaliland’s attendance of the London conference, it is accepted wisdom among most Somalilanders, that attendance should be rebuffed. This is largely an emotional, knee-jerk reaction to the arrogance/ignorance of Britain in referring to the country as a region of Somalia and then exerting strong pressure for attendance upon the Silanyo regime, which it has successfully inveigled into attending previous meetings for Somalia to Silanyo’s domestic political cost. The overwhelming majority of Somaliland citizens, and especially the young who have much less attachment to Britain and no fond memories of the relatively benign colonial protectorate administration, would like their government to cock a snoot at Albion’s perfidy and shun attendance. However, this would be a mistake since an emotional response to another’s slight (intentional or otherwise), while often satisfying, is rarely wise and almost never in one’s long term self interest.

    Instead, the Silanyo administration should attend the conference with the aim of telling truth to power and challenging the international community to honestly address why the Somali state collapsed in the aftermath of the Siyad Barre dictatorship and in doing so return ownership of the process of reconciliation and establishment of a new, 21st century rationale for the state to the people of Somalia. Somaliland has unique experience of this type of genuine, grass-root, democratic peace making and reconciliation rooted in local culture, traditions and religious faith. The Borama Conference of 1992, which laid the foundations for the re-emergence of Somaliland as a peaceful, democratic and free republic lasted for over four months, was rooted in local culture and history, ensured that all sections and groups within society, including those historically not accorded a voice, were represented and were heard. In addition, this conference called upon the skills, experience and knowledge of those from the diaspora as equal citizens and not as fortune or position-seeking carpet baggers. The representatives/participants at this conference included clan elders and leaders, traditional Sultans, intellectuals and poets, business people and professionals.

    The conference had no formal agenda, but everyone knew that the central topic of discussion was the terms upon which the people of this country were prepared to live together in peace and fraternity in a post-dictatorship, post-irredentist future. The first item that was agreed, which set the tone and stage for the subsequent reconciliation and agreement to form a representative government, was that all previous political and clan disputes between the peoples and clans of Somaliland, whether rooted in the defunct dictatorship or in the subsequent liberation war, were null and void, were consigned to history and that it was ‘xaraam’, a sin, to ever raise them again. The people of Somaliland have a lot to offer in assisting the international community in developing a workable road map for genuine reconciliation in Somalia, and they are prepared to put this experience, expertise and their good offices as an honest broker between the warring parties on the table.

    However, the international community has to come to the realisation that the continued failures of its efforts towards re-establishing a viable Somali state over the last two decades are neither accidental nor due to any bad luck or lack of effort. Rather, they have been doomed to failure because they have sought to paper over the cracks of a political edifice that cannot be resurrected because its very foundation has disappeared. Somaliland’s willingness to play the role of peace broker, impartial adjudicator and host of the reconciliation process for its brothers to the south is genuine and heartfelt. Equally, its commitment to its sovereignty and independence is unconditional and also genuine and is not subject to question or debate by others. Somaliland won back its independence and freedom at the barrel of a gun, after a long war, and with the precious blood and treasure of its people. Somaliland’s freedom and recovery of its sovereignty was neither negotiated at a conference table nor granted by fiat, and it will not be surrendered on any terms. International recognition may not come today, or this year, and the powers represented at the conference may choose to ignore the will of the people of Somaliland for as long as they wish, but this will neither deter them from their chosen destiny nor dismay them from their choice.

    It does not often come to pass that a leader is presented by history with a chance to represent the wishes of his people and the justice of their cause to the international community by issuing a challenge, so honest, so heartfelt and so rooted in the basic humanity shared by all peoples, that it marks a turning point in international diplomacy and modern history. Such a moment was presented to Emperor Haile Selassie at the League of Nations in 1936 and the challenge he issued to a world community dominated by European colonial powers on behalf of the Ethiopian people suffering under a brutal onslaught by fascist Italy, brought a destitute, backward and impoverished African country into the League as a charter member and changed the course of history. In 1974, Yasser Arafat went to the UN and said: ‘Today I come bearing an olive branch in one hand, and the freedom fighter’s gun in the other. Do not let the olive branch fall from my hand. I repeat, do not let the olive branch fall from my hand.’ The world never saw the struggle for Palestinian rights and the creation of a Palestinian state through the same prism again.

    President Silanyo has such an opportunity at the London conference. He must challenge the world to deny the self evident will of the people of Somaliland and their unique achievement of creating a democratic, post-irredentist Somali state, imperfect as it may be, adjacent to the longest-running failed state in modern history. He must point out that the denial of Somaliland’s rights and the continued consignment of the people of Somalia to a never-ending nightmare of anarchy, terrorism and war are two sides of the same coin. The Somali people have the ingenuity and the will to solve their seemingly intractable problems if provided by the international community with the means. The missing ingredient is the imagination and creativity to step back and let the Somalis do it for themselves. Somaliland’s message to the London conference is simple: if the definition of madness is repeating the same action again and again yet expecting a different result each time, then we are your sanity pill; ignore us at your peril.

    The world may ignore Somaliland’s right to recover its sovereignty, but we have the solution to our brothers’ troubles, and we stand ready with an open hand to offer it, if you will let us. The prolonged misery of Somalia and Somaliland’s continued prodigality are linked and both the result of the lack of imagination and creativity on the part of the international community, which has for too long consigned the ‘Somali issue’ to the back burner. If the world is now serious about finding a solution for the problems of the Somali people of the Horn of Africa, then it should open not only its heart, but also its mind and its ears, because Somaliland has been shouting the solution for years to deaf ears. Somaliland’s attendance of the London Conference must challenge the status quo, not only with respect to its own situation, but also with respect to the situation in Somalia. Somaliland, as the first post-irredentist Somali nation-state, must deliver this message and deliver it emphatically. Who knows, forcing the world to properly address the ‘Somali Issue’ may just save the conference and save the credibility of Albion.

    * Ahmed M.I. Egal has a BA (Economics & Politics) from Warwick University and an MA (Area Studies [African Development]) from London University.

  114. I am slightly bit dubious about the political prospects and the aspiration of this rather diminutive conference put it together by the least of peoples who wanted to see it to accomplish anything substantial other then to reinforce the violence that had engulfed most-part of the country and to destabilize the parts that had benefited some solidity in-terms of peace and provided it’s duelers sanctuary from the lunacy that had overwhelmed the country at large for decades.

    However it’s imperative that one wishes to remain optimist but nevertheless it’s neither cleaver nor wise not be heedful and to loose vision of the big agenda here.
    Somalia had been a failed state for over 20years, and i wonder, what are the purposes of this rather sudden and renewed interest from The HM government of United Kingdom.? After long and rather none existent attendance from the previous arena that was synonymies the birth of the Al-shabab, piracy, and unelected so called Somali Politicians not to mention the involvement of the biggest corrupt body of the world has ever known the UN.

    I urge you all to dig deep and see the interest of the UK government and it’s associates wants assert themselves!!!!

  115. Ambassador Matt,

    first and foremost congratulations for your new role and warm welcome to Somalia.

    Secondly, the task ahead is immense, time consuming and challenging but nevertheless an achievable task.

    I am sure you have listened and interacted with wide variety of Groups and individuals and have a wealth of understanding of the deeply rooted Somali issues.

    Somalis are passionate politicians and profoundly care about Somalia as a nation, but struggle to determine priorities.

    Priority should be given to Security/Stability and ensuring the safeguard of the vulnerable and innocents.

    Finding long lasting political settlement is a process of careful negotiation having agreed the basics.

    It is perhaps inevitable to declare Somalia as a Federal Country, but what that means needs to be agreed and territorial boundaries and the Social make up of the region (s) clearly discussed.

    Strong Judiciary base will help promote the principles of Good Governance; the writing of a new Constitution based on fairness and transparency and above all the respect for individual human rights is essential!

    Matt, lots to do!!!!!!!!!! Allah bless us ALL.

  116. I urge Matt Baugh to do something regarding the conflict that can escalate at any-time regarding Sool, Sanag and Ayn Regions in Northern Somalia. Puntland govt has the capability to wipe somaliland off the map in a matter of days if they so wished, they beat the USC militia commander and tribes at the height of their power in Galkaio in 1993. I urge you to get involved regarding this before its to late and before there is no return regarding it.

    Mr. Farole is being pressured by his locals to do something regarding somaliland offensive assaults against cities and towns of Puntland region and if he doesn’t the people will, because every citizen is armed in Somalia, it is high-time that the British govt stops supporting somaliland who is going around attacking cities and towns who do not wish to be apart of their administration and if the UK doesnt then I am sorry to say the war that can happen between puntland and somaliland will be another great tragedy and all of somalia will be in a state of war.

    Get involved now matt baugh because when puntland is selling oil you do realize the first thing on their list to buy is weapons? of course it is because security is paramount to making sure the oil development and piracy is at bay. The u.n arms embargo is not against somalia as many think, the tfg is exempt from it and the prime minister of somalia is from the puntland region so they do always have a channel to get what they need legally.

    I urge matt baugh to step in regarding the conflict between puntland and somaliland before the issue truly becomes a catastrophe.

    The suggested solution to solve this issue is quite simple:

    1. Somaliland administration must be barred from interfering in cities and towns of sool, sanaag, and ayn and bribing politicians into becoming somaliland.
    2. Puntland doesnt get involved in somaliland regions and never included that region as apart of its cities nor does it want to and we expect the same from somaliland to not include cities in the northern regions who are historically and blood wise related to puntland.
    3. If somaliland fails to comply I suggest bi-lateral and funding ties should be cut and Puntland given the right to defend its territory and people who are constantly being attacked for the only reason “they dont wish to be apart of somaliland”.

    Matt I know Puntland and it doesnt like to enforce its will on people, after the great war between the usc and ssdf in galkayo, the usc militias under aideed were soundly defeated and the clan of aideed who reside in galkayo were told by abdullahi yusuf to return to their homes out of generosity and this was not something they offered the puntland folks who couldnt return to their homes in mogadishu yet they overlooked it for the sake OF PEACEEEEEE.

    Puntland doesnt entrench on other tribal territories because it believes the best solution in Somalia is that every tribe maintains the peace in their own areas untill a federal government is born in Somalia. This is a policy of peace that the u.k should be supporting because this reflects the realities on the ground in Somalia where tribe is all even in the islamist areas who use tribe to push forward their agenda.

    Puntland is not asking the u.k to support them to supress all somalis under puntland, its not asking for anything but to give each and every tribe of somalia the right to rule themselves until a federal solution in somalia is workable. This is the only reasonable solution in somalia untill things are sorted out because after 20 years of civil war people first need to see peace in their own areas first and a sense of stability and this can only be done if each tribe and region is left to their own devices. We cannot expect after 20 years of civil war that all will be just dandy at london conference and old war wounds will just be healed over-night. It wont and the only way forward is let each clan rule its own area and bring peace and stability back to its people, once they have seen peace and stability for a while they then can start looking for grander things like national government.

    Its not hard to solve Somalia’s problems but I am of the opinion that some people prefer somalia in the situation it is.

  117. BEING appointed Britain’s new ambassador to Somalia could easily feel like the diplomatic equivalent of being a Second World War soldier sent to the Russian front

    Congrats Matt

    1. But really Sir you are a bright hope of peace for many children. Thank you for your efforts.

  118. Im supporting London conference, clearly security is a major issue in Somalia and will make an obstacle to even hold any conference of its type in Somalia much less inviting world leaders and prominent international bodies, and i doubt really that there is a Somali city that is capable or decent enough to host this huge number of delegates.

    but who is going to sit on that table? the current corrupt TFG officials? or someone who actually intends to help Somali people. i think the regional administrations such as Awdal State, Somaliland, Khatumo State and Puntland etc etc should be represented equally in London conference, representatives of each regional admin. should be invited and given a chance to contribute in forming the constitution.

    Representatives of democratic political parties such as Hiil-Qaran should also be present in the London conference for their large fan-base and wide membership board, and for they are potential leaders of Somalia coming August.

  119. Hello everyone,

    Again, this upcoming conference in London on Somalia is geared to find an immediate resolution for the sporadic civil war and the piracy in Somalia by any means necessary.
    It would not be a big deal if Somalis decimate each other by civil wars as long as it`d contain in Somalia but that’s no longer the case, we’re coming to a realization the snowballing effects are nearing:

    A) The maritime insurance companies are making a fortunate on their manefests by declaring a high risk venture on any shipment that destined to nautical passages of Indian ocean and Mediterranean sea.

    B) The the citizens of the world outcried by not feeling safe due to a small group of somalis utilizing assault weapons and makeshift boats
    are roaming freely in the international waters..
    C) International affairs experts said the growing piracy business in puntland is a factors to the current world economic crisis.

    That`s been said, Somaliand`s presence at the meeting is favorable, hence, Somaliland participation was not necessary in the previous meetings, now, all of a sudden, the U.K as well ads France highly recommended that Somalilander high ranking officials should be attending at the meeting, not because they’re good friends of Somaliland’s president, or prefer Somaliand over somalia but the world super powers are vividly aware of the fact that Somaliand has something to bring at the table.
    Let’s be clear though, Somalilander attendees will not bargain with anything less than a full recognition for Somaliland. I would suggest that Somaliand should only narrate its achievements explicitly at the meeting and ask the participants to recognize somaliand as a sovereign nation.
    Britain and France have something to gain if they support in Somaliand sovereighty and install a functioning admistration in Somalia, I`m positive the rest of the world will be followed.

    Thanks,
    osman Ibrahim

  120. Mr. Matt Baugh your honour, you must not recognize the seccessionist entity known as Somaliland. I am from Jubbaland a state which has been usurped by Al Shabab extremists who are holding our people hostage. Mr. Matt Baugh we use to faithfully serve the British and we guarantee you that the secessionist state is nothing but clan warlords seeking to tatter the country into clan fiefdoms. As a Representative of the UK, you must continue to support Somali unity and nationalism just as you support unity in the UK inspite of Scottish secessionist trouble-makers attempting to hijack the Queen’s country.

  121. Having read some rediculas comment on this forum from so called Somaliland, I stilll wonder, so called SomaliLand, which infact is a name, which is made by British Collony is consist five big tribes, Isaaq, Dhulbahante, Warsangeli, Ciise and Gudubiirsay and four out of the five are rejected what so called Somaliland Dream.
    The all I could Advice that the dream has finished and it is time to wakeup, it is time of unity and peace. Otherwise you are free to can create your own Isaaq Land .
    Somalia is Samali.
    Thanks

  122. firstly I would like to say to those who are insulting each other over nothing to stop that and you are only showing your differences, frictions, hatred and tribal conflict to an external body which is British government. Therefore think as you are writing like you were born yesterday but unfortunately you weren’t born yesterday but your ignorance is talking, In terms Somali-land, I personally think Somali-land should be encourage and support for their progress but that doesn’t mean Somali-land should be obstacle to political, economic and social freedom of SSC regions as we know every single clan or tribe has all rights to exercise their rights on their located regions. Therefore Siilanyo need to think again and come up with better and peaceful resolutions or leave those regions alone.
    That is for those who are making nonsense on this blog and Mr Matt doesn’t appreciate your pointless comments as he opened this blog to gain feedback.

    In terms of the conference,I honestly do not know where I stand because I do not know the hidden agendas of the Cameron government which leaves me difficult situation whether I would support this initiative or not but on the hand if they want to help us with honestly and transparently why wouldn’t I support but I can not make that judgements at the moment as we do not know the exact content of this conference.

    However there is one thing I am pretty sure that slips away the hands of British government or missing from their agendas which is one of the most important conflict elements that Somali people face which is Tribalism* to educate our community about tribalism on grassroots level should be top of this list and we all know that is the biggest obstacle we face but we do not want to talk about as this is roots of all Somali problems. Therefore I would advice Mr Matt to advice back to his ministers and government about this boiling issue that is if they are being serious about their approach of bringing stability to Somalia and unless this has gets solved forget any progress. For example I am follower or supporter of Social reform movement called Anti-Tribalism Movement and beg you looked the success they made within short period of time and all Somali scholars sees them as the future of this nation and British should make them their first point of contact even before the TFG as they concentrate to bring peace to Somali people on grassroots level without getting involve the typical issue.

    see their website folks to see their simple contribution to our community http://www.theatm.org

    Those of you who are bringing tribalistic talk should turn to your creator and look at those young group of Somalis who dedicated to change us morally and mentally.

  123. I would like to thank the UK government for their efforts for helping the Somali people. One thing I can say is that the conference should welcome all different areas of Somalia such as Putland, Asayrland, Mahirland, Khaatumo State, Awdal State, SomaliLand , Hiiraan State, Galmudug, Jubaland, and others.
    All these groups are different tribes, and each tribe declared him self as a State so that no tribe has power over the other Tribe. I recommend that all these groups came to the meeting with their week Government TFG, sit side by side and listen to what the other over 40 governments have to say that are participating in this Conference, then things will be all rights, since one tribe, group or state saying that they are different country and fighting with their neighbor in order to over power, things will not be all right and fighting will continue for anther 20 years, therefore The UK government should treat each state as an equal and not favor one over the other. In doing so it will insure that everyone will be treated fairly and have equal say.

  124. Why has the UK government ignored the war crimes Ethiopia has committed in both Somalia and the Somali region of Ethiopia ? Are we to assume that the UK government condones these henious crimes against humanity ?

    Ethiopian soldiers commit of war crimes in Somalia

    Amnesty International on Tuesday accused Ethiopian troops in Somalia of killing civilians and committing atrocities, including slitting people’s throats, gouging out eyes and gang-raping women.
    In a new report, the human rights group, which is based in London, detailed chilling witness accounts of indiscriminate killings in Somalia and called on the international community to stop the bloodshed.

    The rights group said it had scores of reports of killings by Ethiopian troops. In one case, “a young child’s throat was slit by Ethiopian soldiers in front of the child’s mother,” the report says.

    “The people of Somalia are being killed, raped, tortured. Looting is widespread and entire neighborhoods are being destroyed,” Michelle Kagari, the Amnesty deputy director for Africa, said in a statement from Nairobi that accompanied the report.

    Haboon, 56, said her neighbor’s 17-year-old daughter had been raped by Ethiopian troops. The girl’s brothers tried to defend their sister, but the soldiers beat them and gouged their eyes out with a bayonet, Haboon was quoted as telling Amnesty.”

    In its battle against rebels in eastern Ethiopia’s Somali Region, Ethiopia’s army has subjected civilians to executions, torture, and rape, Human Rights Watch said in a new report released today. The widespread violence, part of a vicious counterinsurgency campaign that amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity, has contributed to a looming humanitarian crisis, threatening the survival of thousands of ethnic Somali nomads.

    The 130-page report “Collective Punishment: War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity in the Ogaden Area of Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State,” documents a dramatic rise in unchecked violence against civilians since June 2007, when the Ethiopian army launched a counterinsurgency campaign against rebels who attacked a Chinese-run oil installation. The Human Rights Watch report provides the first in-depth look at the patterns of abuse in a conflict that remains virtually unknown because of severe restrictions imposed by the Ethiopian government.

    “The Ethiopian army’s answer to the rebels has been to viciously attack civilians in the Ogaden,” said Georgette Gagnon, Africa director at Human Rights Watch. “These widespread and systematic atrocities amount to crimes against humanity. Yet Ethiopia’s major donors, Washington, London and Brussels, seem to be maintaining a conspiracy of silence around the crimes.”

  125. Congratulations Ambassador Matt and your team.
    I wish you success on the Somalia mission and the long road to peace.
    Best Regards

  126. Mr Ambassador, Matt Baugh, I hope you have your office opened in Somalia and you get to work in Somalia as you should ought to now the Security in Mogadishu has improved. Please bring your staff and family into Somalia and start you work from there and not continue to work from Kenya as some other politicians do. It would be nice if Britain stay in Mogadishu at these times to show a sign of solidarity and work with the people and current TFG government with its limited time frame it has until August 2012.

  127. First of all thanks Matt Baugh for this article and articles before that which you have wrote. Thanks for taking the time to read the comments of Somali Diaspora. Also I would like to congratulate you for your new post. It is my understanding; Britain has appointed you as a new ambassador to Somalia, resuming diplomatic presence after more than 20 years of upheaval in the Country. This was done in coinciding with the Visit of William Hague.

    Thanks for also being impartial and taking in all the views and comments from all people. As by now you have noticed, there are many Somalis living abroad and majority of them have small hope from London Conference that there would be a cooperative and comprehensive road-map planned for Somalia. When people have gone through the kind of history Somalia been through it is understanding to see some of that pessimistic way of thinking. However I would like to take this opportunity to remind people the only way to resolve a problem is being optimistic rather than being pessimistic about the issue at hand. Somalia faces many problems, and first issue is lack of individual leadership from the Somali community. We need charismatic leaders and that is the responsibility of every individual, if they feel they can do something positive now is the time to go back to Somalia at this window of opportunity. We are in window of hope. We also welcome any support and assistance any foreign government can give. Also we applaud and commend the hard work the British government is doing to restore peace to a land that doesn’t even recongnise what peace looks like. People need to realize we can overcome the problems we have and they need to believe change can come about. Not because the British government is involved in the Somali peace process but people and communities need to believe that we can resolve our differences and we can make a stand for what we believe in as people.

    A comprehensive road-map is needed and it must include reconciliation of all Somali people. Where ever they maybe. The failed peaces process in the past failed because they failed to bring together the right people. I believe a good decision has been made calling on our brothers from Somali-LAND. It is a step in the right direction as any Somali peace requires all parties whether they are in South or North.

    Now as for the Road-Map itself I suggest first to look at the current situation at the moment, it is important to reminder everyone the tasks at hand. We Somali’s tend to take our eye off the ball when it comes to big issues:

    1.Displaced people – Tens of thousands of Somalis are dying from malnutrition as the worst drought in 60 years causing a massive food shortages and famine in many parts of the country. The United Nations declared a famine in lower Shabelle and southern Bakool, where malnutrition rates are higher than anywhere else in the world. In some areas, more than half the population are malnourished. More than 30 percent of Somali children are acutely malnourished.

    2.Extremism Ideology and Terrorist Groups – Al-Shabab – Arabic name known as “Youth” formed as a radical offshoot of the Union of Islamic Courts in 2006. Affiliated to al-Qaeda. Killed and tortured hundreds of Somali innocent women and children. In fact abduct children for their Jihad cause to fight against the Somali Government including AMISOM troops.

    3.Lack of leadership and Political infighting – Continuation of fist fighting among parliamentarians and other Somali lawmakers does not constitute a good leadership or governance. On top of that the high corruption and bad management of civil services, as well as not paying wages to Somali Police, Military, doctors and nurses, all those people who are risking their lives for the sake of their country are just acting in patriotic fashion and are not getting paid. Also the majority of the political instability in Somalia is based an old political design one that divides people and keep us thinking in backward fashion. Currently the TFG establishment is based on the “4.5 Formula” which they claim was designed to balance the clans, contribute to representation and influence of power in Somalia between the four major clan- and coalition of minority clans. The 4.5 Formula is not a Somali political initiative however it was initiated at a previous reconciliation conference held in Djibouti in 2000 by neighboring governments. The Ethiopians claim historically this type of power-sharing method was successful in uniting their many ethnic groups, and President Ismail Omar Guelleh, the President of Djibouti, encouraged this division of power. Also the Somali Parliament seats are also divided under the rules of the 4.5 Formula. This political system (CLAN-POLITICS) which doesn’t benefit the majority of the Somali people and just a collective few who are uneducated, consider themselves the elite and want to stay in power in some dubious ways, needs to be looked at, examined we need a more modern revised, fair, collective, benefiting the majority system. Whether that is political parties or one single party but a system that is fair and collective.

    4.Somali piracy – Pirates have been operating in the Gulf of Aden, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, for several years, prompting world powers to send their navies to safeguard international trade but still piracy exists and this way of tackling the problem will not resolve any of the problems presented today by piracy.

    5.Lack of Reconciliation efforts by the current TFG government. This is posing a serious question. Whether the TFG wants to maintain status quo or they seriously mean business.
    I think these are just the tip of the iceberg and there are further more issues. However just to highlight the task ahead it isn’t easy.
    I think the Road-Map should consider all of the above and more. How to bring the refugees back home; make Diaspora one of the stake holders in any conference so they have a responsibility as the ought to have to bring in some of that brain power that was drained out of the country for the last 2 decades. We need all Somalis to participate in solving the Somali crises and overlooking the educated Diaspora and just inviting politicians that were not elected by the people and may not represent all the people is not a sign in good direction. We need a more comprehensive meeting whether it is in London or in Somalia to have all the people from different clans, intellectuals, young, old basically a representation of Somali Community not just few political leaders. There has to be an open forum to discuss all solution with international community but the international community is just there to mediate the discussion and make sure we have a platform of openness, fairness and equal rights.

  128. Mr. Ambassador welcome to Somalia and I hope you will try your best to understand the situation on the ground.

      1. Hello Matt baugh,

        First, congratulations. The high ranking official visit of Britain’s Foreign Secretary Mr. William Hague and his delegation is an indicative that Somalia is on track to make a comeback as well as the seriousness of Britain in seeking a lasting solutions for Somalia. The home work for Somalis is both challenging and doable if they come to their senses, face the realities, and cooperate with each other and wisely use the facilities provided by Britain and other international community participants.

        It appears that Britain is doing the right preparations, and you as the Ambassador of Britain to Somalis is equipped with what it takes.

        Once more Congratulations,

        Keenadeed

  129. I thank Matt Baugh in particular and the UK Government in general for making this forum possible.
    As a UK citizen of Somali and East African origin who is based in Saudi Arabia and have been closely monitoring the state of affairs of Somalia for quite a long time now, I believe that UK has invested a lot in Somalia through offering refuge to a substantial number of Somalis but has not capitalized on the advantages it has over the others in addressing the failure of Somalia.This investment is a two-edged sword.It has threats to the security of UK and tremendous opportunities but fortunately the opportunities outweigh the threats.
    The question to the British Government is, how far is it prepared to go in stabilising Somalia?
    My message to the Somalis is that, no matter how divided you are, it is imperative that Somalia is stabilised and that is in the interest of all Somalis, including Somaliland, the region and the world.Not unlike the rest of the participants, the input of Somaliland is required.It is impossible to isolate Somaliland from the rest of the region.
    Somalis currently tend to seek the support of the rest of the world to advance their agendas, both hidden and unhidden.Somaliland strifes for recognition from the world community and the rest of Somalia begs the rest of the world to put their house in order and totally ignore the fact that they have to lead the way in addressing their plight.
    Trusteeship under the United Nations will one day be the only option on the table for the world.
    As for my message to UK Government and the world community, as long as the objective input and suggestions of the apolitical Somali communities and individuals are ignored and major decisions on the strategy for addressing the failure of Somalia are solely made by foreigners all their separate or collective endeavours will be in vain.
    I have been in contact with the US State Department since 2001, the OIC since the Contact Group in Somalia conference in Jeddah, the Islamic Development Bank about its scholarships to Somalia, the UK government organisations about the kidnapping of the Chandlers’ kidnapping and felt as if I were talking to God.It has always been one way traffic and I have been very much disappointed.Are you willing to listen to the Somalis about Somaia’s crisis?
    Somalia above all requires a “war.operation room” type of approach with a clear long term strategy, allocation of the necessary resources, a lot of input from the Somalis themselves and a coordinated international agenda without hidden components for each government or individual participant.
    If you are really serious, come on board.

  130. Many congratulations Ambassador! Good to see Willaim Hague in Mogadishu to accredit you with your new status. Also, I belive good news for Somalia and those of us working towards improvement in the situation for all Somalis. Best of luck with the upcoming conference.

  131. The success of this conference will depend on the level of seroiusness of the hosting country, the right representation of the Somali side, The selected agenda, the experience and information with the facilitating parties. The target of the hosting side and the time given which is the most crucial.
    Somalias problem is based on these factors:
    1. The basic stucture of the society and the influence of triblism in the Somali culture which makes them so vulnerable to violence and thoughtless euphoria.
    2. Lack of solid governance know- how due to weak judicial system and since independence and excessive power given to leaders since independence which lead to free hand to the leaders to run the country the way they wanted and out of control corruption. This has created great resentment to many Somalis who happened to be not from the clans of the ruling elite. and due to weak or corrupt judiciary there was no human rights protction mechanism thus allowing attrocities and deprivation tobe inflicted on those suspected of opposing the system.and they inturn had to seek help from any side who had any hostility with the ruling system.
    3. Somalis always beleived the principle of great Somalia which had ignited wars between Somalia and Ethiopia, and created suspicion between Somalia and all its neighbours. The last war in 1977 between Somalia and Ethiopia led each country to support the opposition of the other.
    4. Finally Somalia lost her friends ans her status in the world in that war allowing the Ethiopians to topple the system easily using rebl fighters from the tribes who were resenting the ruling tribes.
    5. Due to the purpose of the backing country to those rebels and lack of broad vission of the then rebels and the influence of the tribial hatred and divission, the rebel groups lost the apportunity to establish a strong broad based national government and wasted most of their time in revenge wars against tribes they believed were backing the ruling system. This had led to an endless wars.
    6.Why did the Somalis not find a solution for these meaningless wars and not come together all that long.
    The answer is Simple and plain
    It is because of fear and lack of trust!
    Since Somalia never tasted a real good government which protected the citizens’ right, which saveguarded the country’s wealth, which had benn peaceful with its neighbours.
    Every tribe and some times most of the public believe if they are not the ones dictating the way the country is run or having free access to the countries wealth then they would be the victims of deprivisation and attrocity. that is why every tribe is fighting to the end to get the presidential seat and no less than that.
    The only solution to that is a pure and crystal-clear transparrent sysytem with no slight room of vaugeness for corruption, protected by weel refined judicial system and run by dedicated intelectuals, that can prove once and for all to the Somali people that there can be a governemnt that is for all the citizens which is defferent from those they had known as governments. Only then could it be possible for the Somali people to regain their confidence in their government and become once again good law abiding citizens.
    The proof for this last hypothesis is the attitude of the Somalis towards each other outside their country and towards other people of the countries they come to live.
    Somalis are not violent people by nature, this can be elaborated from the way they behave outside their country.
    All they need is Good governmet and justice for all.Unless the whole countries governance system is rewritten and judiciary system overhauled, and intlectual elite are supported to run the country and the negative intervention from outside countries stopped; there is no hope of re establishing Somalia. and every conference will end up in failure.

  132. Somalis have come from five different areas such as Somaliland, Djibouti, Reserve area, NFD, and Somalia, after british protectorate gave somaliland their indepedent with no struggle, Somaliland united with other somalia (the southern) they decieved Somaliland while they built only the southern and they agreed togather that the north wil always stay minority under the southern, it was allowed to build high buildings in Hargeisa, and they may thought that we could nothing but we tolerated and gave respect to them–in the 1980th somalilanders were sloughtered, jailed with no reason by Siyad Barre known afweyne, they raped hundrens of our women even some of them were present their own hasbands at that time southern somalisa genosized us somalilanders especially those of us come from Eragavo to loghayo we live entire in Somaliland we made the snm after became fried from them in 1991 somaliland was announced and al togather agreed to be somalilanders, as we were british protectorate era, somaliland was always excisted—WE somalilanders wil never, never reunite with somalia we wanna recognization from the international community and don’t waste of times to midiate somaliland and somalia

  133. Dear Matt
    The UK government and the international community have to deliver more equitable policy for the whole regions of Somalia which will in turn encourage a more peaceful coexistence amongst them. The SSC region has not received any funding or support from international community in the past because Somaliland claimed their share of funding. Unfortunately Somaliland used the funding to suppress the Somali people who live in the northern regions of Sool, Sanaag Ayn and Awdal. The population from Khatumo State of Somalia will never be part of an administration basing itself on one clan dominance. The Somaliland administration has been indoctrinating its people with false ideas. The British government should be aware and not fall into a trap by actually fuelling instability in the Northern Somalia through their aid policy. The people of the SSC are dreaming to be part of a new prosperous, peaceful and stable Somalia. Finally Khaatumo State of Somalia and Awdal State representatives should be invited to take part the UK sponsored conference in February.
    Safia Ali Ateye

    1. Dear Safiya,

      I am originally from Buhodle, I disagree with your comment against Somaliland. I go every year holiday to Buhodle and i am very happy security, respect of civil society and women participation which i enjoyed when i go transit in Hargeisa but our SSC is behaved in terrorising way against Somaliland , Somaliland are quite happy to get be engaged, as president Silanyo offer talk any group who felt not been engaged but we are isolated by some corrupt politician, i am sure i do not get such freedom in Buhodle.

      SSC and Khatumo are two faces of the same coin of terrorism if they need peaceful solution they need to take part elections.

      1. You will find it’s Hargeisa that is terrorizing towns and cities that don’t share the Hargeisa hegemony.

    2. Well Said Safia, I enjoyed your analysis of the dire situation in the north as it pertains to SSC.

  134. I wish for the best for all Somali and I thank the UK government for it’s support. WELL DONE!!!!
    To my brothers please look at the bigger picture. Somali is the only country in the world that can’t manage to govern it’s country.Yesterday Ethiopia today Kenya what next. The issue to day is not Somaliland it”s Somali, AL SHABAB, AL SUNNA ISLAMIC COURTS etc.
    Learn from Somaliland its proveded home grown solutions.
    I hope Somaliland attends and show the foward away to it’s brothers

    ONE LOVE!!!!!!

  135. I think its a great idea to try something different from the other so called conferences, I believe the solution is to make Somalia a protectorate of the United Nations for 5years or 10years and rebuild the country without any interference from the neighbouring countries. The protectorate should include states such as Puntland, Somaliland, Khatumo State, Awdal state and galmudug in another words the entire 18 regions of Somalia. The 18 regions of Somalia should be present and represented inclusive of all the Somali tribes.

    Warning: if the UK decides to invite only few cronies from Puntland, Somalialand and ahlusuna waljame’a and ignore the rest no effective result will come out the conference.
    People from all 18regions must be sitting on the table, educated well informed people like Ali Khalif Galaydh, Ali Isse Abdi, Abdikarim Hassan Jama, former prime minister Farmajo, Mahdi Warsama,Osman Kaluun, Buubaa, Abdi Ismail Samatar, said Samatar and Rageh Omaar. Just to name few Somali intellectuals.

  136. UK -UN and International Community must;
    -support somali Unity
    -come up a way that somali people should elect their own government inside Somalia
    – Stop supporting SNM leadeship in Hargaysa for oppressing other people that love unionism
    – Bring all warlords, who destroy Somali Democratic Republic masaccred millions of civilians infront of the International Justice, including the leader of SNM.
    – Create a lasting political solution
    – financial support to coever all the regions in a balanced structure.

  137. I wish the so called popular conference to be successful. I hope It will find a lasting solution to Somali Problem which lasted for 21 years in front of every nation in the World. The Somali People have suffered a lot but this time we need a unified solution to the Somali Problem. The conference must preserve two things the Unity of Somalia and the Roadmap

  138. UK mast think twice the blindless support of somaliland that is killed many ennoucent SSC people those dont want injustice, opression, deviding the country based on nothing that will be disaster to whole horn of africa.

    this meeting must brought all somalis to gather to have a wide range federal government including puntland, Kaatumo state, Awdal state, Somaliland Jubbaland, galmudug and etc.

    UK must rethink of thier blindless support to somaliland who killing people in their Areas and remember even UK failed many years to force these poeple during the clonial period let alone small tribe who is trying to force an other.

  139. First of all iam greeting to the all members of Uk government such as the prime minister and the all members , after that i believe the Somali crisis will be ended if the new regional athonomy take part the london conference such as Khatumo state of somalia which is the out come of welly participated conference of Taleh.

  140. I don’t understand what people r writing here, but the issue is that all somalis come to gather 2 find solutions, and the essue s not somaliland let the meeting concentrate in Somalia, therefore somaliland is one tribe regional adminstration and it coming a problem to the somalia’s solution therefor they said and fough against injustice and opression and they r doing now against poeple who decide their desire and future as well.

    We somali people agree with Khaatumo State and somalia can’t be devided by only Isaaq tribe who are not even 5 % of somali’s population and located in less then two regions.

    I think if Britain fails to have a braod plotical stabilty i whole somalia they must avoid to encourage what is called 2 regions of somalia that could result heavy loss of lifes between those who straggled even agains britain during the clonial period and somali people in general.

    We must not forget the khaatumo state is belong to Dhulbahante group of Harti and the biggest clan of somalia Daarood. so they could well manage to withdraw the Isaaq malitia who are fagting for nothing killing children women old enoucent people in Laasaanod Buuhoodle and this could be an other failure and unfortunate to all somali concerned countries including UK.

    Mostafa

    1. Daarood are not the biggest tribe in Somalia or Somaliland. Unless you are trying to include the Ethiopian Somali regions darood but then you would need to include their respective tribes to others also. Isaaq are not 5% of the population. Either your mis-informed or just deliberately insulting our intelligence.

      As far as I am aware it Somaliland is not oppressing any one but has disagreed with a sub sub clan of the darood who represent a minority. Unlike the Isaaq who are one third if not more of the Somalis in Somaliland and Somalia combined.

      There is no comparison between a democratic country like Somaliland and a international elected TFG government in Somalia/Puntland.

      Somaliland should be recognised as a country if Somalia wants to concentrate on its own affairs without the added pressure of dealing Somalilands people who are against joining it.

  141. The only thing Somalis need to consider is the geographical difficulties facing it. Somaliland and Somalia have the longest borders in the whole of Africa. Somaliland has the Gulf of Aden and Somalia the Indian Ocean. Secondly Somaliland has a very different terrain and this means its needs are very different. The two different areas have very different structures therefore difficult to have one government giving all its attention at once to both. Finally, the neighbouring countries bordering each area have to very different out look on its dealing with each of these countries. My take on this is that it is imperative for Somaliland to separate allowing for diversity and tailoring of its needs to itself. Whilst still maintaining trade and security relations with Somalia. Not all Somalis need to be under one nationality. Much like Arab lands it is envitable for several countries to imerge out of such a large area within Africa. Even Ethiopia has given Independence to Eritrea. So why shouldn’t Somalia?

    1. Britain knows borders and people lived in the North better than the kids born during the SNM history misleading.
      It will take loong time to rehabilitate those misguided children of SNM from the hatred they have been fill with in terms of Somalia while finely, the day comes when there is no recognition to lie about.

      1. I think this guy tried to use my name! I hope its only a coincidence.
        Can those who moniter the blog please please put a word limit. The essayists have shown way too much enthusiasim.

  142. First of all iam greeting to the all members of Uk government such as the prime minister and the all members , after that i believe the Somali crisis will be ended if the new regional athonomy take part the london conference such as Khatumo state of somalia which is the out come of welly participated conference of Taleh.
    thank you
    REPLY

  143. i am saport KHATUMO STATE OF SOMALIA becous this is comen from their nation from SOOL (LAASAANOOD) SANAAG (CEERIGAABO) BUUHOODLE ( CAYN) a im saport this KHATUMO STATE OF SOMALIA and i licke this state

  144. firstly, i would like to thank the relentless UK effort of bringing Somalia’s peace and stability back. secondly its very obvious that Somalia become a global threat after the fall of the dectatorship regime, Siad bare. most of the volnerable somalis are very interested the UK-somali conference in search of peace and stability in somalia. coming to the point, its very complicated to easily select the very important members which would represent the reality on the ground. but in my opinion its very important to select the running regional states, religious factions and the social workers. the running regional states are the Galmudug, the ehlusunah, the puntland, the somaliland, the khatumo and the awdal state. these regional institutions would fairly represent the heart and minds of thier own sociey. the religious factions are may be the forum of the olumas( islamic scholars), and the social works may be the regional and local humanitarian agencies wich could sumbit important sugesions based on thier experience. awdal state and khatumo are very potent, widely populated, educated class of somalia. so, their presence will guide the conference more fair and justified. and the out-put will easily permeate the peoples of these states of somalia. i wish the UK-somali conference transform the somalis from darkness into peace and prosperity

  145. How could the Transitional Federal Government succeed if its members don’t have much credibility or support from the people of Somalia?? On what basis were they even chosen?
    What about the desire of the majority of people in Somaliland and the credible and legitimate government of Somaliland?

  146. It is apparent that the debate for pros and cons in setting up small clan based states will grab unnecessarily much of our attention now (whilst still new and fashionable), but this should not distract us the reason why the London Conference is held.
    .
    Primarily it is about the Regional Security and the increase of piracy and other criminal activities e.g. kidnapping in the Horn of Africa. Secondly, is to find “political” solution for Somalia.

    Combating both lawlessness and conflict requires resource; co-ordinated strategy and most importanly stability.

    It is NOT Prime Minister Cameroon’s role to tell Somalis what Political System (Central; Federal; Religious) to choose, but rather to facilitate dialogue. Choosing what system soothes Somalia is up to the Somali people.

    The notion of Federalism is not new to Somalia, and certainly was an option considered in early/ mid 1950’s just before independence. It was Abdulkadir Zoppo, Somali Minister of Finance then Interior Minister of the first independent Somali Administration who argued that before somalia was granted its independence. At the time it was seen as an anti-independence or anti-Somali if you mentioned any sort of separatism. And here we are today wanting to chop Somalia into small enclaves.

    Yes, perhaps it is inevitable that we need to seriously consider Federalism as an option going forward, but this has to be noted and debated carefully by Somalis. This has to be a Political Process rather than Military/Clan Militia Process, forcing smaller tribes into submission. We all well aware the consequence of never ending civil war and its negative impact in both human capital and environment.

    My vision:
    1)The establishing of Somali Federal States. This initially could be based on the 4.5 formula.
    2) The establishing of Council of Presidents (based on 4.5) with 2 year Chairmainship for each. (10 years all together for the 1st administration).
    3) Devolution of all powers to Federal States except Foreign; Defence and Monetary Policies.
    4) Establishing Lower and Upper house of Parliament for all Federal States.
    5) Establishing of a National Lower and Upper House’s as well as establishing National Supreme Court.

    I’ll urge all Somali people round the world to put their “invisible” differences to a site for once and work towards a lasting stabilty for Somalia! Allah bless us all. Aamiin.

    1. Great piece and to the point. Hope the participating Somali Groups in London take your points into consideration.

  147. Sir Matt Baugh and Andrew Mitchell

    To get a solution for the ongoing conflict in Somalia the international community needs to understand the tribal difference in area in the Somali community as you did in Afghanistan.

    Since 1991 after the Civil War all tribes fled to their region Isaaq clan proclaimed Somaliland and Darood created semi-autonomous Puntland. All big tribes committed atrocities against each other except those from unless armed tribes such Midgan-, Banadiir-, Dir families etc.

    The largest tribes in south-central Somalia Hawiye and Digil Mirfle didn’t creat effective administration since 1991. The only effective administration was under the Islamic Courts Union, 2006, that was formed with support of Somali business community in Banadir region and in the Diaspora.

    The Somali Diaspora that immigrated to North America and Europe in the past 25 years, It is estimated by Somalis 65-70% are from south-central Somalia due to the conflict in their region.

    Andrew Mitchel and Matt Baugh you can’t expect a leader from Somaliland to get huge support from the people in south central Somalia or vice versa.

    It was the biggest reason people didn’t support former President Abdullahi Yusuf from Puntland and Ethiopians invasion that created huge radical impact over the people in south-central Somalia, that was the reason Alshabab became popular and where supported at that time two historic rival as allies against Somalia people in south.

    Most influent in these organizations:
    – Islamic Courts Union,
    – Alshabab extremist against peace and dialog ,
    – The biggest companies in Somalia,
    -The Somali Diaspora,
    – The Media
    – Most of Somali military commanders
    – Popular Musican
    – Academics

    In every field even those that are child soldiers are from south-central Somalia they are either Hawiye or Digil Mirlfe. The reason is 2/3 of the Somalia population is populated in South-Central Somalia and the other big somali clans have fled to their region of origin.

    Darood tribes are dominant in Puntland, Kenya (NFD) and Ethiopia (Ogaden) but some are inhabitant in southwest Somalia.

    Isaaq with some Harti-Darood proclamied Somaliland they are found even in Ethiopia.

    The one person that real understands the problem and the solution in Somalia is:

    Professor EJ Hogendoorn at International Crisis Group after watching some videos and read his truefully articles.

    To get a popular solution in south-central Somalia majority of those leading the government in Mogadishu should be from south-cenral Somalia or most atleast most important ministry post to get huge uprising impact to fight the against the unpopular Alshabab extremist.

    Sincerely
    Somali Youth in North America
    Chairman
    Mahdi Abdiwali

  148. No can mislead the whole World by trying to hide the history and reality on the ground now!

    Someone may ask where are the 100,000 military personnel and hardware stationed in Somaliland before liberation and the Dictator styled himself as Jaalle Siyaad (“Comrade Siad”) and his Clans/Inferno Mafia dhulbahante extended loyalties NSS community the human rights abuse subordinate under his in-law Interior Minister, one of the most corrupted and brutality mercenaries on earth… Quote….”People only rain on your parade because they’re jealous of your sun and tired of their shade.” CHECK OUT AND ENJOY BY LISTENING, the MP3 at here from Live BBC http://bit.ly/zOk6v1

  149. Keyse:

    Its great opportunity for Somalis and much thanks to the British Government to host this monumental conference. The sad fact is that Somalis inability to come to a consensus after 20 plus years in the wilderness, forced the Global community to intervene and them from themselves…Unfortunate sad of affairs indeed. With regard to all these numerous X-lands with pseudo-history of being separate countries is just laughable. SSDF was a tribal organization that sought to give a certain Clan the political clout … which resulted in whats now called Puntland, similarly SNM was a tribal Organization that sough to enhance and protect the ISAAQ Clan thus Somaliland was born from that… There was no input or participation from other Non-ISAAQ clans in their neighborhood so it’s quite disingenuous to claim that all the clans in the region are for Somaliland. It’s nothing more that political leverage as far as ISAAQ is concerned ..since by population they are the majority in this enclave called Somaliland hence the Non-ISAAQ clans will remain a minority in that set-up and will ensure the domination of the majority. We say HELL NO…. I hope after 20 yrs… the Somali wisemen would put aside the destructive clan politics and select competent leadership and a constitution that protects the rights of every Somali regardless of Clan and gender.. Ameeen

    1. Keyse, I just want to share with you your positive thoughts and analysis, and it is good to see people who care more about Somalia than the fashionable clan based states!! It is frustrating when after almost 23 years of homelessness we haven’t still learned the value of freedom and sovereignty. God bless Somalia!!!!! Aamiin.

      1. Likewise Abdullahi Hamud:

        I find it amusing to see certain groups resorting to manufactured history inorder to justify Secession but the unfortunate reality for them is that there are written Historical records both in Britain and in major Educational institutions around the world. We are stronger as a united people than divided and I hope nationalism trumps Clan loyality and it’s negative residue.

  150. The London Conference has indeed resolved many conflicts
    – from the Greeks, to the Belgium statehood,
    – to the establishment of the Nurember Trial..

    However, this is London Conference on Somalia will fail because the element of stathood and Nurembert style trial is not yet conceived

  151. United Kingdom should NOT let Somalia split Somalia is one country that speaks one language,one religion, culture etc.. If Great Brittain lets Somalia split then they juperdising their own stakes as well! Great brittain should only help Somalia on how it once again great country again that it was, and it should assist the weak transitional government. Great Brittain please if you are going to intefer in Somali politics then dont bring more division among us than you already did in the past. We will not that from you not again. thank you

  152. 1. A Faros says:
    Your comment is awaiting moderation.
    January 31, 2012 at 9:24 pm
    Dear Matt
    This important conference concurred with significant political changes in Somalia and northern regions in particular. My assumption is you updated your data regarding the country’s status quo accordingly and taken relevant changes into account. One very important change is the birth of Khaatomo State of Somalia emerging in Taleh with realistic and practically viable solution to Sool, Sanaag and Cayn territory. Although it is still new and uninclusive in terms of residual clans, it brings golden opportunity of peace and stability for the counties concerned and the territories of both neighboring Puntland and Somaliland – bringing their conflicting claims of SSC to an end. The following article sheds more light on this important development.

    Exposed
    Somaliland’s savage aggressions
    |29 Jan 29, 2012

    What is painfully clear to all Somalis is the international community’s deafening silence on Somaliland’s savage attacks against Buhodle.
    It is the painful sight of the young children. Some boys and girls look as young as 6 or 8 years of age. They were wounded during Somaliland’s savage aggression against Buhodle district – military aggressions that began in February 2011, then again in May 2011, and now during the first month of 2012. The repeated Somaliland violent onslaught targeting Buhodle district and its inhabitants – including the mothers and their children – has forced thousands of nomadic clansmen to take up arms and courageously defend their liberty and their right to self-determination.
    Indeed, those children did not commit any crime, perhaps other than to belong to a particular clan and region of Somalia that has become a target for Somaliland. In looking at the heart-breaking photographs of wounded civilians transferred to a hospital in Puntland’s city of Galkayo, one aches to comprehend the reason and cause that motivates Somaliland’s deep hatred and inherent complexities that lead to the committing of war crimes against civilian populations in Buhodle. In October 2007, when Somaliland seized Las Anod city, the situation was different: Las Anod was betrayed by her own sons, who allowed Somaliland forces to march in to the city and displace upwards of 50,000 civilians, according to UN estimates.
    But in Buhodle, despite bribing local officials, Somaliland has failed to infiltrate Buhodle society in a similar fashion to events in Las Anod. Each time the bribing effort failed, Somaliland provided even more bribes hoping that the situation would magically transform into the Hargeisa regime’s favor. When all the exponentially increasing bribes did not bring results, Somaliland’s tyrannical leaders who engaged in the 1990s genocides in northern Somalia could not believe their eyes – that the people of Buhodle are willing to die to defend their liberty and their right to self-determination. No man on earth has a right to impose a political or religious idea on any person or community.
    It was the people of Somaliland, who in the 1980s led the SNM struggle to liberate the northwestern cities of Hargeisa and Burao from the iron grip of the Barre dictatorship. The SNM and its supporters claimed the right to self-determination. Today, as if that memory was irrelevant, it is Somaliland’s SNM leadership that has overlooked recent history and is now behaving in manner similar to the Barre regime. If Somaliland had warplanes, it can be argued that Somaliland would have conducted airstrikes against Buhodle.
    The reason for Somaliland’s repeated attacks against Buhodle is easy for any Somali to understand. The Isaaq-dominated Somaliland regime cannot fathom – and indeed their ego cannot accept – that a single Darod sub-clan (Dhulbahante) is able to face-off against the entire might of the Isaaq-dominated Somaliland forces. In all of Somaliland’s savage attacks on Buhodle, Somaliland forces lost again and again – both manpower and equipment. We send our condolences to the young Somali men who were sent to their graves in Buhodle by power-hungry SNM politicians in Hargeisa who are still thirsty for the spilling of more blood in order to satisfy their ego damaged by inherent complexities.
    In Somali minds, this reading of Somaliland’s war losses damages the morale and self-perception of being “better” than fellow Somalis – and particularly the Darod whom Somaliland falsely brands as the foot soldiers of Barre dictatorship. Still, the resentment, enmity, hostility and hatred go back even deeper into history, dating back to the anti-colonial struggle.
    What is painfully clear to all Somalis is the international community’s deafening silence on Somaliland’s savage attacks against Buhodle. What Somaliland could not accomplish with policy, they will never accomplish with a gun. Every community in Somalia is armed. Despite all efforts to look like a “nation” it is very clear to Somalis what clans the families of deceased soldiers belong to. All Somalis fully know about the funerals at Somali homes in Hargeisa and Burao. All Somalis fully know what clan resides in Hargeisa and Burao. A few hired politicians, such as the unashamed warmonger from Las Anod Mr. Ahmed Abdi Habsade, will never constitute a legitimate representative of the aspirations of Dhulbahante people. The likes of Mr. Habsade are of lesser value than how Somaliland views the Isaaq politicians who are part of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia.
    The international community is recommended to immediately intervene and demand Somaliland stop its savage aggressions. The people of Buhodle have proven with their blood that they do not wish to be part of any separation from Somalia. That separation can never come at the high cost of blood and violent imposition where people’s liberty and self-determination is taken away.
    Secondly, Somaliland is reminded that the people of Buhodle are part of a larger Somali community that resides all over Somalia – in neighboring Puntland, in Galgadud region of central Somalia, and the Jubbaland regions of Somalia’s deep south. What is happening in Buhodle quite clearly is a clan war – and if this clan war does not cease immediately, then this clan war might expand and ignite a bigger war that destabilizes the entire Somalia – and particularly Puntland-Somaliland regions of northern Somalia that have experienced stability for years.
    Thirdly, the shameful warmongers who post online opinions and false information to mislead the world are reminded that the truth can never be hidden or silenced. Somaliland’s savagery in Buhodle is now exposed – and history will demand answers.
    And finally, Somaliland’s SNM leadership has failed the people of Somaliland. International recognition as an independent country is not coming. Every time Somaliland loses politically, the Hargeisa regime changes the people’s focus to the historic “enemy” – indeed a perceived enemy – to the east. This is shameful politics in the 21st century. There is now growing concern that battle losses, both politically and militarily, is widening internal discord in Hargeisa as Somaliland’s aging leader Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo allows his ultra-powerful clan-cousin Mr. Hersi Haji Ali Hassan and allies like SNM warmonger and Kulmiye party chairman Mr. Muse Bihi to conduct a policy of extremist violence to settle old scores. Internal discords include the ongoing dispute between Somaliland President Silanyo and Vice President Abdirahman Abdullahi Saylici, a dispute attributed to Mr. Hersi and which is widely reported by Somaliland media, and even compared to the notorious TFG political disputes.
    Garowe Online Editorial
    editorial@garoweonline.com / contact@garoweonline.com
    Reply

  153. Dear Matt
    This important conference concurred with significant political changes in Somalia and northern regions in particular. My assumption is you updated your data regarding the country’s status quo accordingly and taken relevant changes into account. One very important change is the birth of Khaatomo State of Somalia emerging in Taleh with realistic and practically viable solution to Sool, Sanaag and Cayn territors. Although it is still new and uninclusive in terms of residual clans, it brings golden opportunity of peace and stability for the counties concerned and the territories of both neighbouring Puntland and Somaliland – bringing their conflicting claims of SSC to an end. The following article sheds more light on this important development.

    World turns blind eye to Somaliland’s savage aggressions

    GAROWE ONLINE EDITORIAL |29 Jan 29, 2012 – 10:51:35 AM

    What is painfully clear to all Somalis is the international community’s deafening silence on Somaliland’s savage attacks against Buhodle.

    It is the painful sight of the young children. Some boys and girls look as young as 6 or 8 years of age. They were wounded during Somaliland’s savage aggression against Buhodle district – military aggressions that began in February 2011, then again in May 2011, and now during the first month of 2012. The repeated Somaliland violent onslaught targeting Buhodle district and its inhabitants – including the mothers and their children – has forced thousands of nomadic clansmen to take up arms and courageously defend their liberty and their right to self-determination.

    Indeed, those children did not commit any crime, perhaps other than to belong to a particular clan and region of Somalia that has become a target for Somaliland. In looking at the heart-breaking photographs of wounded civilians transferred to a hospital in Puntland’s city of Galkayo, one aches to comprehend the reason and cause that motivates Somaliland’s deep hatred and inherent complexities that lead to the committing of war crimes against civilian populations in Buhodle. In October 2007, when Somaliland seized Las Anod city, the situation was different: Las Anod was betrayed by her own sons, who allowed Somaliland forces to march in to the city and displace upwards of 50,000 civilians, according to UN estimates.

    But in Buhodle, despite bribing local officials, Somaliland has failed to infiltrate Buhodle society in a similar fashion to events in Las Anod. Each time the bribing effort failed, Somaliland provided even more bribes hoping that the situation would magically transform into the Hargeisa regime’s favor. When all the exponentially increasing bribes did not bring results, Somaliland’s tyrannical leaders who engaged in the 1990s genocides in northern Somalia could not believe their eyes – that the people of Buhodle are willing to die to defend their liberty and their right to self-determination. No man on earth has a right to impose a political or religious idea on any person or community.
    It was the people of Somaliland, who in the 1980s, led the SNM struggle to liberate the northwestern cities of Hargeisa and Burao from the iron grip of the Barre dictatorship. The SNM and its supporters claimed the right to self-determination. Today, as if that memory was irrelevant, it is Somaliland’s SNM leadership that has overlooked recent history and is now behaving in manner similar to the Barre regime. If Somaliland had warplanes, it can be argued that Somaliland would have conducted airstrikes against Buhodle.

    The reason for Somaliland’s repeated attacks against Buhodle is easy for any Somali to understand. The Isaaq-dominated Somaliland regime cannot fathom – and indeed their ego cannot accept – that a single Darod sub-clan (Dhulbahante) is able to face-off against the entire might of the Isaaq-dominated Somaliland forces. In all of Somaliland’s savage attacks on Buhodle, Somaliland forces lost again and again – both manpower and equipment. We send our condolences to the young Somali men who were sent to their graves in Buhodle by power-hungry SNM politicians in Hargeisa who are still thirsty for the spilling of more blood in order to satisfy their ego damaged by inherent complexities.

    In Somali minds, this reading of Somaliland’s war losses damages the morale and self-perception of being “better” than fellow Somalis – and particularly the Darod whom Somaliland falsely brands as the foot soldiers of Barre dictatorship. Still, the resentment, enmity, hostility and hatred goes back even deeper into history, dating back to the anti-colonial struggle.

    What is painfully clear to all Somalis is the international community’s deafening silence on Somaliland’s savage attacks against Buhodle. What Somaliland could not accomplish with policy, they will never accomplish with a gun. Every community in Somalia is armed. Despite all efforts to look like a “nation” it is very clear to Somalis what clans the families of deceased soldiers belong to. All Somalis fully know about the funerals at Somali homes in Hargeisa and Burao. All Somalis fully know what clan resides in Hargeisa and Burao. A few hired politicians, such as the unashamed warmonger from Las Anod Mr. Ahmed Abdi Habsade, will never constitute a legitimate representative of the aspirations of Dhulbahante people. The likes of Mr. Habsade is of lesser value than how Somaliland views the Isaaq politicians who are part of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia.

    The international community is recommended to immediately intervene and demand Somaliland stop its savage aggressions. The people of Buhodle have proven with their blood that they do not wish to be part of any separation from Somalia. That separation can never come at the high cost of blood and violent imposition where people’s liberty and self-determination is taken away.
    Secondly, Somaliland is reminded that the people of Buhodle are part of a larger Somali community that resides all over Somalia – in neighboring Puntland, in Galgadud region of central Somalia, and the Jubbaland regions of Somalia’s deep south. What is happening in Buhodle quite clearly is a clan war – and if this clan war does not cease immediately, then this clan war might expand and ignite a bigger war that destabilizes the entire Somalia – and particularly Puntland-Somaliland regions of northern Somalia that have experienced stability for years.

    Thirdly, the shameful warmongers who post online opinions and false information to mislead the world are reminded that the truth can never be hidden or silenced. Somaliland’s savagery in Buhodle is now exposed – and history will demand answers.

    And finally, Somaliland’s SNM leadership has failed the people of Somaliland. International recognition as an independent country is not coming. Every time Somaliland loses politically, the Hargeisa regime changes the people’s focus to the historic “enemy” – indeed a perceived enemy – to the east. This is shameful politics in the 21st century. There is now growing concern that battle losses, both politically and militarily, is widening internal discord in Hargeisa as Somaliland’s aging leader Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo allows his ultra-powerful clan-cousin Mr. Hersi Haji Ali Hassan and allies like SNM warmonger and Kulmiye party chairman Mr. Muse Bihi to conduct a policy of extremist violence to settle old scores. Internal discords include the ongoing dispute between Somaliland President Silanyo and Vice President Abdirahman Abdullahi Saylici, a dispute attributed to Mr. Hersi and which is widely reported by Somaliland media, and even compared to the notorious TFG political disputes.

    Garowe Online Editorial
    editorial@garoweonline.com / contact@garoweonline.com

  154. Good comments from one author in hiiraan.com, I have copied what’s related to our topic:

    Another international conference that fails to address these crucial aspects will be futile and waste of time.  For the conference to achieve its objectives it must consider the following:

    ·       Minimise beating war drums and maximize finding other political options;

    ·       Find means to get the TFG and its opponents to have peace dialogue;

    ·       Ensure that the TFG is ready to accommodate  the most important demands of the opposition;

    ·       To assist the TFG to come up with its long term plans to tackle continuing insurgency in Somalia

    ·       To force the TFG to accept the involvement of international Islamic clerics in the mediation process;

    ·       Seek voluntary collaboration of local residents to crush piracy. Create opportunities for the local population who live in the pirate-invested regions

    ·       Hunt down those who support and facilitate piracy: locally and internationally and bring to justice;

    ·       Offer an international pardon to the rebel leaders.
     Elmi Dhaayow
    dhaayoow2000@yahoo.com

  155. Dear Mr Matt,

    I like to declare my opposition to the break-away so-called Somaliland. Somalia is one people, one religion, one culture and one in everything. There is no point dividing such a nation. For your information, the seccession is only believed by the Isaaq clan in Hargeisa. The other major clans in Somaliland oppose this. In fact, there has been a war in the Eastern part of Somaliland between Isaaq and Dhulbahante. As special representative to Somalia, I am sure you aware of such a conflict.

    Isaaq people could be cajoled to join the central government. If they, they can be president of Somalia for the next 10 years. But one thing is impossible. The relocation of the capital from Mogadishu to hargeisa will be unacceptable to all Somalis. Any solution short of that will work. and the British influence is needed to bring Somaliland back to Somalia. Very easily, the British and America could threaten to stop the aid unless they re-join Somalia. I am sure that the secessionist tendencies will disappear.

    As regards the post-August arrangement, I would suggest that there should be autonomous regions, whose borders will be demarcated by a special commission and latter ratified by the parliament. And strong central government. The Somalia politics is such that every sub-clan wants to have their own town and local administration. So what the criterion for creating a town? Counting population numbers is the solution. People will accept that their numbers will determine their political rights. It is therefore as simple as counting the people once every 5 years.

    The autonomous regions will elect their own leaders and regional parliament. It is a constitutional arrangement similar to the new Kenyan one. This will satisfy everybody without the need of federalism, which will only bring about eventual disintegration.

    I would also advise that those leaders(president, prime minister, parliament speaker and so on) who come to power after August, 2012 will be prevented by law to come to political office after their time runs out. The current corrupted leadership will not run for office after August paving the way for new technocratic people. My other advice is that the constitution must set 5 year limit for presidents. After 5 years, the president cannot stand again. My reasoning is that anybody with ideas have plenty of time to implement in that 5 years. After that he is a spent force. moreover, in Africa any president re-running for presidency after the first term will resort to election fraud and irregularities to win again because presidents are only popular in their first term.

    Anyone in power for 5 years have had the opportunities to implement his vision. If he has more to contribute, then he can be allowed to be a life senator. Second terms brings about corruption, nepotism, cronyism and totalitarianism. This arrangement stops future dictators in their track, and more importantly, allows other people to have their turn to rule their own country. I hope my ideas will be considered carefully.

    Mahad Calasoow, Muqdisho, Somalia

  156. Somalia had no proper functioning Goverment for 21 years, while Northen State of Somalia Known as Somaliland Managed to Build a Proper Functioning state with Law and order, Congrats to them… What the European Union needs to re-colonies The whole Southern State f Somalia, im Sure Somalis would be more then happy to Be ruled by a none somali after such a long Failure..

    1. You, SNM-lander,
      the reality is on the ground!.
      stop the foolish mentality.
      regarding SSC regions, Britain knows better than you do.

  157. Somali people have tried many systems to form their own government since independence. They tried systems such as socialism, secularism, tribalism (4.5) but the real Islam was tested 2006 by Islamic union court and it worked. I believe Islam is the only solution to all Somali crisis. Islam, if practiced properly, has a secret power to free all Somali people from the tribalism that is the root of the Somali crisis. Therefore, I am calling on all Somali people to use the mechanisms and methods of the Islamic reconciliation process found in the Quran.

  158. A message from the Khaatumo, Maakhir & Awdal regions: If Somalia is divisible so is Somaliland

    Somaliland is a beacon of stability, a peaceful and democratic state in Africa. It is Africa’s best-kept secret and therefore it deserves to be recognised internationally. Or so frequently spread the proponents of Somaliland. These misleading persons are either some hired pen-mercenaries who for pecuniary reasons propagate loads of baloney or others who take a secessionist’s propaganda at face value. But certainly much of the mantra comes from people who hail from a pretend and clannish enclave that calls itself Somaliland. A case in point is Mr Adan Ismail (Liban) whose article has recently appeared in the Somali websites. Mr Adan has attempted to rebut an open letter, stirring hornets nest in Somaliland, written by Mr Osman Hassan to the USA assistant undersecretary for African Affairs, Jonnie Carson. In this open letter Mr Osman has brilliantly highlighted the fallacy of Somaliland and further put forward how best the USA policy would help the Somalis. Unfortunately, the letter must have been pretty galling for Mr Adan and obviously it prompted him to respond with a familiar rehash of hackneyed collection of claims and distorted historical facts. Additionally he has also tried to disparage the existence of Sool, Sanaag and Ayn(SSC) regions and depict these regions as parts that identify themselves with a so-called Somaliland.

    Before discussing the issue of SSC regions and where its people stand in today’s prevalent situation of Somalia, I prefer to debunk some points, raised in the aforesaid article which are either baseless or of wishful thinking.
    The undeniable entity of Somaliland

    Mr Adan has passionately tried to make us believe that there had been a country, called Somaliland from 1884 and up to 1960, the date the British had left what was once known as British Somaliland Protectorate.

    Well, to be fair enough to some of his points, it was Europe’s scramble for Africa in 1884, which resulted in Britain, France and Italy to curve up Somali populated regions or a common Somali homeland in the Horn of Africa. It is also true that Britain took control of the territories of northern part of this Somali homeland and named the occupied territories as British Somaliland Protectorate. It is clear that, to Mr Adan and like-minded secessionists the term “Somaliland Protectorate” connotes a special closeness and consanguinity to the British occupiers and in fact it is for this reason the name “Somaliland” has been picked for their cause.

    A historical fact, though ignored in the article, is before the British government took the control of the Somali territories, the British had signed a treaty with all the traditional elders except those who were the forefathers of the SSC people. The SSC forefathers did not only reject the British colonisation but they also fought the British forces. It is in the record that Major Frederick Mercer Hunter, Assistant Political Resident at Aden and the elders of the respective” territories” signed on treaties between 11 December 1884 and 27 January 1886. The essence of these treaties was that the British government would provide protection to the tribes whose elders had entered into an agreement with the British government. Hence, traditional elders of the present SSC regions had never recognised a British Somaliland Protectorate or any treaty nor accepted and certainly the same applies to today’s SSC people.

    On the question of boundaries and the relevant provision of the OAU (AU) charter of 1964, which is mentioned in the article, it is true that “Somaliland” inherited colonial boundaries in 26 June 1960 but it is equally true that these artificial boundaries had disappeared in 1st July 1960 when the Somali republic was declared as the inheritor of the colonised territories. It is a pity that a sane person is legitimising colonial boundaries while de-legitimising the boundaries recognised by the OAU (AU) and other international bodies. It is also a self-defeating act to misinterpret the OAU charter and twist the provision of the charter as it is applicable to Somaliland’s colonial borders, while in fact, and as per the available record the relevant provision of the Charter applies to the borders of independent states that are members of the OAU, and not to borders of a breakaway region, that is still in a member state like Somalia.

    In addition to the above facts, if anyone thinks that Somaliland had been independent recognised state during the four days between 26 June 1960 and the date of its union with Southern Somalia, or that “Somaliland” is different from Somalia or somewhat a sui generis as often claimed by the secessionists then one must be reminded what the British Government secretary of State for colonies, Ian Macleod had stated in front of the then visiting Somaliland delegation in London. For the record, in a conference(1) held in London on 24th of May 1960, the secretary had confirmed to the visiting Somaliland delegation, that once the “territory” was united with the southern territory the protection treaty and all its attributes would be abrogated.

    Putting these historical facts into objective judgement surely there had been neither an internationally recognised state called “Somaliland” nor distinct people known as” Somalilanders” from 1984 up to 1960. There had been solely an occupied territory, which was British Somaliland Protectorate, which ceased to exist from on 1 July 1960 when two colonised territories of the common Somali homeland were united to become an independent state of the Somali republic.
    Unequal union and its failure

    The secessionists very often say the union was disaster or failure and heap all the blames to the south. But what they do not realise is that there had not been anything wrong with the union itself as this had been a desirous aspiration of all Somalis. It is true that initially and in particular during the first years of the first Somali government, there were administrative problems as anticipated given the two territories were under colonial powers with two different administrative systems for a century or so. Also mendacious claims that the south had inequitably all the main ministerial posts after the union of north and south is nothing more than one of the propaganda tactics the secessionists had to stir their clan to rebellion and put the hoi polloi in a high dudgeon. The fact of the matter is that the northerners had almost, all the time in all the successive civilian Somali governments, the premiership and significant numbers of ministerial portfolios. One can recall the government of Mr Abdirazak Haji Hussein, a southern prime minister of the second civilian government of Somalia during 1964 – 1967 where half of the cabinet were from the north including the key portfolios of foreign; defence, information and finance. Similarly almost half of senior civil service and most of the ambassadorial posts were given to the northerners. Northerner’s wishing to have had more than that with a population of one-third of that of the south simply unmasks politically corrupt leaders who always wanted to be the top dog and who had finally masterminded Somalia’s present quagmire.

    Just for the sake of the argument and in order to expose the travesty of the facts, often spread by some let us hark back the government that succeeded Mr Abdirazak Haji Hussein´s government.
    Mr Mohamed Ibrahim Egal, a northerner held the post of premiership of the first government and became for the second time the prime minister during 1967-1969. Deplorably an axiomatic fact is that Mr. Egal´s government was marred by rampant corruption, which ultimately wrecked Somalia’s 9 years of civilian rule. The ill governance, injustices and corruption brought by this last civilian government had finally culminated in a military coup d’état headed by Mohamed Siyad Bare who presided over a brutal regime for twenty one years.

    So if anything went wrong, it was not the union itself, but the blame squarely rested on the shoulders of all political leaders who were from north and South.
    Repression and Alienation

    We all know that the military takeover that followed the civilian government of Somalia and headed by Mohamed Siyad Bare was very repressive and brutal. No honest Somali would deny or dispute that atrocities were committed against the northerners by the dictatorial regime. But what is morally wrong is to assume that only northerners were alienated, oppressed and killed. It seems the secessionists disregard the crimes inflicted on other Somalis and consider them unworthy. It is a known fact that the first victims of the dictatorial regime were those from the central/Mudug regions. In these regions hundreds of civilians were killed. Water wells and entire villages were also raised to the ground and all these were carried out by the regime’s soldiers, belonged not only to the south but also to all regions of Somalia including from Hargeisa and Buroa. Of course the secessionists like to keep under wraps these crimes in which northerners took part as well as atrocities committed by the SNM against the innocent civilians of SSC and Awdal regions.

    Fabrications such as that oppression and other crimes were committed only against the northerners or Siyad Bare killed more than 80 000 northerners, a figure exceedingly goes over the top, are some of the flimsy justifications, which the secessionists often publicise to win the foreign hearts and minds to sell their invented cause.

    In fact if one had to secede from Somalia because of atrocities; SSC regions would have had every right to reject the union with southern Somalia or British Somaliland in 1960. Thousands of men, women and children were killed during Dervish struggle by the British forces with collaborators whose forefathers were the so-called Somalilanders.
    SNM and its Armed Struggle

    How or when SNM became into being is no longer a relevant issue. A more crucial question is why SNM was formed and its ultimate achievements. It is the right of every individual, group or movement to fight against injustices and oppression provided that would not contravene the nation’s interest. Unfortunately SNM like SSDF, USC and SPM was a clan-based militia driven by disgruntled men without any viable political vision except a myopic one of seizing the power. Additionally if all the movements had common denominators, the SNM had one hidden agenda that differed it from others. The leaders of SNM dreamed of having their own entity where they would be the masters and at present we witness the true colours or to where such clan-motivated policy heads. The power is now concentrated in the hands of these SNM leaders and their clan members from the central regions of “Somaliland”.
    Reconciliation between Clans and Declaration of Independence

    The secessionists and their cohorts keenly talk about a declaration which claims all traditional leaders of northern Somalia endorsed the secession at a conference, held in Buroa in 1991. In reality this was far from a genuine endorsement. If anything what happened was, during the collapse of the central government, the traditional leaders of different clans from the north of Somalia as well as the political wing of the SNM came together in Buroa in 1991. The objective of the gathering was to have a conference where the attendees would discuss ways of restoring peace and stability in their respective regions. Unfortunately on the last day of the conference, and in contrary to the good faith of the participants of the conference, an armed clannish mob of the SNM who was in a state of rage surrounded the conference venue and demanded that SNM politicians and the clan elders in attendance, declare the northern regions as a separate and independent state. Having had the top echelon of the political wing of SNM frightened to their supporter’s perturbations due to the lack of any viable political vision, the armed mob at the conference compelled the conference to adopt this unilateral declaration. So, one can verily conclude that this unilateral declaration had no legal basis and had nothing to do with all other clans. As nothing is further from the truth, all the SSC traditional leaders had more than once and without any duress unequivocally declared that SSC regions would not accept secession but would join their kith and kin to form the regional state of Puntland, which is part and parcel of united Somalia. (See also: Declaration from the SSC Regions Conference).
    Peace and Stability in Somaliland

    Another catchword wildly spread by the secessionists’ camp is that Somaliland is peaceful, stable and democratic entity. This is again another ploy to mislead the international community and get a recognition that has been as elusive as a moose in a hunting season.

    There is no doubt that there is a realtive peace in Somaliland when one compares with the south of Somalia but stability and peace have been shaky all along and are not standing on solid base. As long as the factor of clan dominanace is what drives the Somaliland leaders, the beginning of a civil war is only a matter of time and the signs of this are already visible in SSC and Awdal regions.

    Again, the international community is very much privy to the “democracy” of Somaliland as it is confined to one clan and naturally that won´t give the secessionists a ticket for recognition The so-called refrundum or elections had never been democratic and never been monitored or approved by any credible world organisations. It is naïve to assume that some hired foreigners and retired Europeans that have been entertained few days in Hargeisa during the so-called elections would render the results of these elections fair and transparent. Moreover, it is well documented that these elections or refrendum had never taken place in the SSC regions.

    Coming now to the question of SSC people and how Mr Adan is trying in his article to belittle condescendingly and portray them as insignificant or terrorists supported by the TFG, I suggest Adan and his followers to realise the following.

    The SSC people will not succumb to be dominated by one clan and become a minority exactly as Somaliland clan rejected to be a minority in Somalia and certainly if one thinks that Somalia is divisible so is “Somaliland”. No matter how one taints the will and struggle of the SSC people or its leaders, SSC forces are already becoming ants in the secessionist´s pants by the hour and juggernaut to liberate all SSC regions from the clannish militia of Somaliland.

    Finally, it is very regrettable to see a learned brother who lives with delusions, such as Somaliland shall be recognised because it had democratic elections or it is stable and peaceful as these alone are perquisites for an international recognition. Or Somaliland’s case can be equated with that of Eritrea, South Sudan, former countries of Yugoslavia and USSR, (analogies, which are totally false) and therefore it has the right to be recognised.

    It is high time for our brothers and sisters from NW of Somalia to understand that the international community can not recognise a clannish enclave and if it does, and that is with big if, it would definitely let the genie out of the bottle. The whole region and even “Somaliland” will not be saved from an apocalyptic situation.

    Therefore, the only indespensible and inescapeable solution for us as Somalis is very clear.We have to come to our senses, abandon secession and chauvnistic tendencies and instead work for the delivery of a peaceful demeocratic federal state of Somalia.

    Mohamed Ali Mirreh
    E-Mail:mmirreh@hotmail.com

    (1) Report of the Somaliland Protectorate Constitutional Conference, May 1960

    1. Somaliland is not divisible. Simply because majority of the Samaroon and Isaaq and Gabooye and Warsangeli all still mainly reside in this country. Secondly, the majority are Pro Somaliland nationality. Even in their are Pro Somalis amongst them at the moment they don’t have the majority vote. Also at the moment the majority do not have anything to do with Somalia. Mainly because Somalia has a major tribes and clans who control it. Somaliland has always been a separate nation even before the british came it was excised by the Egyptians. Somaliland tribes mainly still inhabit its lands and have very few who have any regions in Somalia or authority their. Puntland has also history of being treaty as a different regiona to the South of Somalia. Puntland quiet clearly states it will only join Somalia under a federal system other wise it choose to be separate. This alone should tell you a lot. Puntland federalism isn’t going to be accepted by the majority of the rest of Somalia. It is destined to fail thus it will call for Independency also.

      1. You will find that the majority of people of Sool and Sanaag dont share your views, they want the unity of Somalia.

  159. Like Communism, the “Idea” of Somaliland Clan-Secession is Dead.

    The winds of unity are blowing in the Northern Somali territories. Since the fall of the Siad Barre’s regime, there have been two fighting ideologies in the territory that was known as British Somaliland. The first ideology was the belief in one unified Somali Republic, led by Northern Unionists.

    The second ideology was the belief in dividing the Somali Republic on early European imperial boundaries, led by the SNM, also known as the Secessionist. The Secessionist strong holds are Hargeisa, Berbera, and Burco, what can be called the SNM triangle. The western and eastern regions, of what was known as British Somaliland, have decided to join the Somali Republic in the forms of two federal states: The Awdal State and the Khaatumo State.

    These new federal states, within the Somali Republic, are following international law and policy towards the Somali territories which explicitly dictates that the Somali nation is one and that it must be federated. With the emergence of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State the idea of two Somali nation-states, the idea of secessionism, is dead. Like Communism, the idea of Somaliland is dead.

    Today the SNM military apparatus has decided to send hundreds of troops to the western and eastern regions to conduct armed suppression on the innocent Somali populace. There are currently 400 troops on the outskirts of Borama to violently suppress the emergence of the Awdal State.

    There are currently many hundreds troops on the outskirts of Buhodle to violently suppress the emergence of the Khaatumo State. Currently, the Somaliland Army (the SNM Army) is committing crimes against humanity against the innocent Somali populace in Buhodle. The only crimes these people are committing are to be Unionist.

    The Awdal State and the Khaatumo State have declared their territories to be unionist territories, within the Somali Republic. Therefore, the international community must recognize the breach of sovereignty the Somaliland Army is committing against the sovereign territory of the Somali Republic.

    Sovereignty is the main pillar of international law, and de jure sovereignty of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State are solely with the Somali Republic, and not the illegal secessionist entity known as Somaliland. Like Hungary and Czechoslovakia during the Soviet era, the Somaliland Army is seeking to suppress the will of the people, but like Communism, the idea of Somaliland is dead.

    With the emergence of the Awdal State and the Khaatumo State, the winds of unity are blowing in the Northern Somali territories.

    The idea of a federalized central government for the Somali Republic is the widely accepted logical option. The Awdal State, Galmudug State, Khaatumo State, Puntland State, and an executive federal state of Benadir (Mogadishu), will be the foundation for the new Somali Republic.

    These five states, with the emergence of few more federal states in South-Central Somalia, will collectively provide personnel for the new Somali government that will emerge after August 2012. The post August 2012 Somali legislative and executive branches should be firmly inclusive to insure an organically accepted central government.

    Aman H. D. Obsiye

    Nabad iyo Caano – (Peace and Prosperity)

    1. Are you claiming an elected government by the majority cannot have its own army secure its people. Are you claiming anyone should pick up a gun and threaten citizens peace because of those who oppose the elected government wish to force their views over the majority. Who I may add have made every effort to offer peace over violence. Who is rejecting who?

      There is nothing wrong with being an opposition but their is everything wrong with threatening people for their choices. Somaliland has evidence of its agreements with many of the citizens of Somaliland to choose peace over force yet some cannot and will not accept their choice. They claim they wish to join Somalia but there are not in Somalia nor is Somalia acceptable to the majority to reserve their right to choose their own nationality regardless of their race similarity. The point here is a small sub sub clan of Darood who live in the outskirts of Somaliland towns bordering other Somali nationals of other countries are causing insecurity and calling for the break up of a majority who choose their own nationality. Their voice will only be heard if they choose to take the peace full and lawfull route. At the moment threatening people in their own clan as well as others living in with them in these regions is causing the Somaliland army having no choice but to protect their citizens.

      Furthermore, because of the small population of these anti Somalilanders they are having to call on other countries brodering Somaliland for help. This tells you that they are a minority who are causing border disputes with other Somalis with other nationalities. Such as the Ethiopian Somalis and Puntland Somalis.

      It is worth noting that your race isn’t necessarily your nationality. Also Somalia is not a race. Somalia is a nationality made up of people who are of the Somali race who chose to unity from different nationalities namely Somaliland and Somalia. Djibouti nor Somali Ethiopians are not part of this yet they too have Somali race with other nationalities.

      Finally, Somaliland has other tribes not just clans or sub sub clans like the SSC are. These are not ever mentioned as people who also largely reside and are part of the nationality that is Somaliland. Such as the Samaroon or the Gabooye. The 21 yrs that SOmaliland declared its dejure Indpendence we had a non Isaaq president for half of that period who was a Samaroon tribe. So the argument that Isaaq dominate the politics in Somaliland just isn’t true. Mis information such as these are belieing all that Khatoumo or SSC or Daarwiish are about. They are simply a sub sub clan of Darood who live with other major tribes within SOmaliland and mainly in the bordering towns. All of the regions they are claiming are integrated with other tribes and cannot be claiming by just them who are a minority in each and every case. In conclusion, Somaliland has made its decision which is supported by the majoirty regardless of their tribe or their race or more importantly their choice of political position. They have a right and this should be respected otherwise it will mean Somalia decisions will never be respected either.

  160. I strongly condemn Warlord Siilaanyo’s Savege attack on Khaatumo people, the killing of innocent civilians in Buhoodle, Cayn, and Las Anod, Sool region is unacceptable.

    Many Somalis were greatly shocked by recent escalation of armed conflict between Somaliland government and tribal militia in Buhoodleh district. The conflict is probably a precursor to unpredictable security and political developments to unfold for the coming months and years. It indicates that peace is to wane in regions formerly defined as relatively stable areas in the North of Somalia.

    The parties involved in the ongoing hostilities have actually lost their sanity to be at each other’s throat to destroy nothing else but their very bones and souls. Arguably, each side claims to have a noble cause to defend and even to die for; for Somaliland leaders it is a question of sovereignty and independence which cannot be subjected to any compromised deal, while it is for the opposing clan a liberation movement for self-determination to establish a system for self-governance on their own choice and will; it is an exercise of God given human freedom and dignity which cannot be taken away by any existing authority from its owners. Albeit such positions taken by parties of the recent fratricide in Buhoodleh, it does not amount to more than an inter-clan struggle for power and prestige; at its stake is the lives of innocent children, mothers, elderly and youth who generally bear the brunt of armed conflicts being waged by blood mongers on sacred Somali soil.

    Generally, Somali politicians pursue vicious policies through dirty means to achieve selfish aims irrespective of magnitude of egregious crimes to be committed against vulnerable population. A case in point is Somaliland leaders who are preoccupied with secessionism to the extent that they could not understand the end results of resorting to military hardware instead of using peaceful means to resolve their differences with their brethren in Sool, Buhoodleh and Sanaag regions. In his annual speech to parliament, Silanyo arrogantly referred to the apparently mounting tribal revolt against perceived dominance as a conspiracy against Somaliland’s sovereignty. No sooner did he deliver such malicious statement in order to rally the general public behind his executive war order than political parties, PMs, and laymen echoed Silanyo’s buzzword for a military defense against dangers emanating from the wicked enemy.

    Understandably, unanimity on a decision related to national issues of cardinal importance like launching an offensive against a segment of the society is hardly found among any given rational leaders owing to its unpredictable far reaching implications on the whole region. In such circumstance, prudence necessitates that leaders have to at least meditate on pros and cons of such move before reaching an agreement. Unfortunately, Somaliland parliament failed to do so and loudly clapped for Silanyo’s hysteric reaction to groundbreaking resolutions reached by Khatumo tribal conference in Taleh as though he were a comedian narrating a funny story rather than a president calling for the death and destruction of certain groups of his subjects. This event sheds light on how the mindset of Somaliland leaders is in a dire need for a complete reconfiguration.

    On the other hand, opportunist politicians spearheading Khatumo tribal conference are also to be blamed for the underdevelopment and violence in the region. Initially, they were divided; some partnered with Somaliland authority on the basis of its underlying secessionist aspiration, others joined Puntland as a tribal homeland for Harti clans while some others shifted frequently their loyalties from one administration to another for personal gains. The local community, whom they claimed to be representing in Somaliland or Puntland, has never had any significant benefits from both administrations in terms of repairing or building social service providing infrastructures such as hospitals or provision of other needed development projects. Equally, the fact that Buhoodleh, Sool and Sanaag regions are recognized as inaccessible hostile areas by international humanitarian and development agencies prevented local community from getting an equitable access to international assistance which could have otherwise improved availability of basic services to save lives. For instance, due to lack of well-equipped health facilities, a mother with pregnancy complications would die on her way to distant main referral hospitals in Garowe, Burao or even Hargeisa.

    Hence, Taleh tribal conference came probably as a logical response to appalling conditions. After thoughtful deliberations, the delegates came up with initiative of establishing a State in regions conventionally claimed by Somaliland and Puntland. Among the hallmark resolutions passed by the conference was to renounce any previous agreements they have forged with Somaliland and Puntland and then to proclaim creation of Khatumo State of Somalia. Nobody has a legitimacy to argue against their right to come together in a conference in order to discuss prevailing social, economic and political conditions and to make informed decisions accordingly; our Almighty Allah bestowed freedom and intellect on human being to make a choice in the face of our changing environment.

    However, there is a doubt whether politicians leading the process of establishing Khatumo State are knocked out of their complacency by existing harsh realities on the ground and therefore made up their minds to form a distinct regional state whose primary aim is to improve the wellbeing of the local community or whether the idea behind the State is influenced by current emergence of mushroom of clan-based federal states throughout Somalia. Anyway it is a choice made by the concerned local community which warrants to be respected by all.

    On the other hand, Somaliland leaders should not have to worry about losing these regions and should be aware of illegitimacy of going to war in defense of an entity that no country wants to recognize. They should not overlook existing disincentives to their secessionist project; they had better contemplate on as to why they should try to impose independence on others through use of force if they had already failed to win their minds and hearts. They should comprehend that fact that they had ignored to address misgivings felt by others about fairness of their political representation in Somaliland, since the heads of the executive, judiciary and legislative branches as well as key ministerial portfolios all went to a single clan; they should accept the fact that delegates from other clans in Burao conference acquiesced to unilateral declaration of Somaliland under duress otherwise the issue of separation would not become a bone of contention among clans today.

    Moreover, Somali unity is very often cited by anti-Somaliland politicians and elites as a strong reason for forming tribal states in the northern regions like Khatumo and Awdal State; they apparently did so only to garner support from Somalis and to justify their antagonist stance towards Somaliland. Reasonably, formation of such states within territories historically belonged to what was known as Somaliland British Protectorate is virtually tantamount to a downfall of secessionist project in Hargeisa.

    However, the paradoxical truth is that Somaliland’s disintegration into a several kinship fiefdoms including Khatumo, Awdal States and possibly others to emerge merely constitutes further complications of Somali agony which will inevitably cause unprecedented chaos and untold human suffering; rivalry between clans can revive past wounds and push them into violent competition in which thousands of innocent citizens will either be perished or forced to lead a destitute life devoid of minimum standards for human being to survive. Consequently, the regions that at least enjoyed absence of widespread violence since the collapse of Somali government will be turned into a theatre for massacre and graveyards for our beloved sons and daughters.

    Given the potential lurking dangers in the dark, employing a strategy splitting up Somaliland into clannish cantons as a vehicle for re-establishing unity of Somalia has a lot of contradictions in itself and manifests ideological and political bankruptcy which cannot be an option for any true unionist. Historically, tribalism proved a very dividing and devastating factor in the social and political relations among Somalis. The unfortunate collapse of Somali government is widely attributed to tribalism and therfore it cannot be used as a medium for resurrecting the unity of Somalia from rubbles under any circumstances.

    However, some learned individuals disguising themselves as Northern unionists employ a counterproductive strategy based on tribalism for unionism. Through lack of genuine nationalism coupled with clannish sense of purpose, they horribly upload their writings with hateful overtones labeling a certain clan in the North as troublesome secessionists as though they were less Somali than others. These articles appearing frequently on Somali websites are not only characterized by myopic views but they truly reflect paranoiac attitudes towards others as well. For them, once Somaliland is cut into pieces, the true Somalis are well positioned to fill the void by establishing federal states!!! Then, all is required to do is simply to get rid of Somaliland irrespective of other existing challenges because they pose a lesser degree of animosity to restoration of Somali unity.

    Frankly speaking, neither Awdal State nor Khatumo or others already declared in the South can lead us to reestablishment of a strong Somali government, but we will end up in creating another epoch of total anarchy, bloody inter-clan hostilities, disunity, devastation and human suffering in the modern Somali history. What is the point in declaring a tribal State here in my hometown, Hargeisa, or in any other region in Somaliland? Would it marvelously contribute to Somalinimo or tear it up into pieces? Does the declaration of States in Puntland such as West Puntland State, Ras Aseyr State or possibly Coastland State – to be announced soon – contribute to the unity of Somalia?!!!

    Contrarily, a feasible approach to Somali unity may probably be to safeguard existing Somaliland administration against any possible disintegration, but push it hard to merge with Somali nation once again. Though this is seemingly very difficult, Somalis in the North are gradually realizing that their quest for international recognition has already collided with the wall and a good number of former SNM veterans are experiencing crisis of conscience; they wish they had never taken part in the armed rebellion that produced the irremediable total collapse of Somali government. Above all, the current administration is pressured by international community to join efforts being made to get Somalia out of its wreckage as a precondition for international assistance. This indicates that Somaliland is on its way back to a unified Somalia provided that their legitimate grievances are addressed and power is shared fairly. Hitherto, time is slowly getting ripe for the process of change to take off, yet it is perilous one to be handled with a great diligence!!

    Furthermore, unionists should keep in mind the boarder picture of what is happening in Somalia to mindfully make a meaningful analysis and come up with strategies towards restoration of a united Somalia. Today, our country is on the threshold of uncertain multifaceted developments; the tenure of the weak Transitional National Government is to end in this years, tribal States are coming into being day after day, disintegration of Somaliland and Puntland into clannish cantons has already started, intensification of military interventions by neighboring countries of Kenya and Ethiopia is getting momentum to further their sphere of influence in Somalia, dramatic demise of fundamentalist armed militia of Al-shabaab is rapidly expected to take place and warlords have already embarked on preparing themselves to seize such an opportunity to make a second comeback.

    Additionally, United States is mainly focused on eliminating Islamic militants posing threats to its strategic interests in the region but does not care if Somalia is to be ruled by warlords afterwards. It is also very important to highlight that Ethiopia, a historical archenemy of Somalia, is tirelessly knitting ties with former warlords, self-styled tribal federal states and the religious group of Ahlu-Sunna in an attempt to strategically employ them to cripple emergence of a viable Somali government. Then, a logical conclusion is that the very tribal states that we endeavor to establish are future weapons to be used for our divide and destruction.

    In conclusion, the aforementioned foreseeable dramatic changes on political landscape leave scores of questions on the destiny of a unified Somalia. If one carefully scrutinizes thoroughly, all indications show Somaliland is not the only existing threat to the unity of Somalia, but the interwoven factors which are concurrently at play can divide Somali territory into dozens of conflicting tribal fiefdoms in the name of federal states marked by another saga of lawlessness and disunity that will continue several years to come. Somalia is at crossroads and any true unionist has to be on the lookout for dangers embedded in current developments that can do more harm than good to our unity or bring us back to square one.
    Considering issues raised in the article, the below lines spell out several suggestions that may be taken into account while dealing with the question of Somali unity:

    1. All people in the North must realize that Somaliland is not one of the fundamental tenets of Islamic faith. Hence, anybody who questions its viability cannot be treated as an apostate to be killed justifiably. Like any other human undertakings, it should be subjected to criticism and appraisal to find out other alternative avenues for state building including a second merger with Somalia.

    2. The already established regional administrations of Somaliland and Puntland should be kept intact and safeguarded against any possible disintegration into clannish states. If there is a cause for a political reorientation, it has to be done from within without disrupting existing arrangements. Additionally, Somaliland leaders should abandon domination, aggression, oppression and intolerance to others’ dissent views and adopt a political culture letting unionists and secessionists have a role in public affairs.

    3. Unity of Somalia cannot be attained through misinterpretation of federalism and emergence of tribal cantons, but Somalia needs a broader renaissance project anchored on true nationalism and revival of our Islamic and cultural values which should be preached as unifying factors to our dilapidated social fabric and political system.

    4. Unionists should distance themselves from using counterproductive strategies based on divisive tribalism as a means for restoring unity of Somalia. They have to be so vociferous in criticizing themselves in order to rediscover the right path to state building.
    Jama Mohamed Askar – Hargeisa

  161. Matt Baugh and Team,

    Greetings,

    I fully agree with your statement that reads as follows:

    “Experience suggests that such a process is fraught with difficulty. What should such a process look like? Well, for me, the by-words of any political process need to be ‘representative’, ‘participatory’, ‘bottom-up’. Even then, though, a number of questions remain – such as who and how to select participants?”

    However, the “Road Map”, with its current arrangement does not reasonably reflect the above statement. In life nothing is perfect and we understand that. But, as a previous British Prime Minister, Mr. Harold Wilson, once said: “…A week is a long time in politics.”, the current political land scape in Somalia is widely different than at the time the Road Map formula was established.

    For example, the security in the south has been advanced and changed to the better a good percentage points. The residents are back in the capital Mogadishu and normal life is picking up momentum. The Mogadishu environs and other regional territories as far as Beletweyne north of Mogadishu and Kismayo to the south are probably moving to the right direction. Thanks to the joint eddorts of TFG, AMISOM, and other neighboring countries, and the international community. Thus, to explore ways to expand the participation from the south is warranted.

    On the other hand, security in the northern part of Somalia has since seriously deteriorated because of the consistent attacks and aggression of the secessionist clan on other unionist territories in the north. At present, no more is the south Somalia the battle ground for opposing Somali factions. Rather it’s the North of Somalia the new battle ground, a dangerous tribal war has been launched by the secessionist clan calling itself Somaliand lead by Siilaanyo on the people and territories of Khaatumo State of Somalia that has already killed hundreds of innocent civilians and combatants from both sides. Also, the Siilaanyo attacks and aggression has injured many and displaced a lot more.

    I see a lot of die hard secessionists commenting in favor of a (MYTH) country they call Somaliland. Unfortunately, on the ground, the secessionist leader Mr. Siilaanyo is waging an illegitimate war to create a non existing country. The North of Somalia is inhabited by many tribes like other parts of Somalia and no one single tribe has the right to violently attack neighboring tribes and attempt to take their territories, freedom, and rights by use of force or otherwise.

    The secessionist tribe is trying to falsely claim the defunct borders of the colonial British Somaliland Protectorate. Legally speaking, ex British Somaliland Protectorate was never a one country. It was a collection of Somali tribes that had separate agreements with the British Empire for protection, even the Isaaq sub clans (current secessionists) at the time signed separate agreements with Britain. In contrary, the Dhulbahante tribes (current unionists of Khaatumo State of Somalia) never signed a protection agreement with Britain. Hence, no body can claim the Khaatumo State of Somalia territories under a false justification. More importantly, the over-riding fact is the act of union of 1960 that created Somalia as one country and one nation under the international law.

    Peace, stability, and development in Somalia is out of reach as long as a single tribe, faction, or an interest group had a greed to satisfy and believe to continue attempting to achieve it by all means. It is this greed what drives the secessionists in Hargeysa, they do not want to be content in their tribal territories of Burao, Berbera and Hargeysa, because they fully know it does not make a country. This kind of greed and madness should be stopped.

    Finally, the London Conference to be successful and avoid Great Britain’s valuable efforts and precious money not to end in waste, the conference must be as much as possible inclusive, representative, participatory, and bottom up. All greed and interest groups should be confronted and stopped. All the following and others from the south should be invited: TFG, Khaatumo State of Somalia, Awdal State of Somalia, Makhir, Puntland, Galmudug. The secessionists in the north who will represent their respective tribal torritories has also to attend. Such formula would make the conference’s participants pretty much largely representative, participatory, and bottom up. The Monopoly of the Somali political land scape by few should end once and for all.

    The strategy of equal opportunity and recognition of fair share should be the magic solution for Somalia. At the end of the day, no matter how much each group tries to take it all (everything), if the only solution (offer) presented becomes fair share, they will unanimously be receptive to it. In other words, once the conference is inclusive, participatory, and bottom up, each group should be told with an unambiguous terms to accept their fair share of the pie (with the note, “take it only” and with out or leave it part.). Of course, the question would be, what and how to determine the fair share? Simple: Somalis know each other and the mix of genuine tribal and territorial representation will be a good start plus other mutually agreed considerations. So far Somalis have been pursuing greed and zero sum policy and that approach has definitely failed Somalis/Somalia big time and did not spare the international community’s efforts from producing no results.

    Hopefully, British Government and its Honorable Prime Minister Mr. David Cameroon will learn from the failed past 20 years history of Somalia and not repeat the same old mistakes and methodologies applied on the so many Somali Reconciliation Conferences which never ended the tribal and political (inter-changeable for Somalis) plight of Somalia.

    Thank You,
    Keenadeed

    1. Mr. Keenadeed:

      If I may ask you to add your 2nd name so as not to be confused with others same name sake (keenadeed). I appreciate ur understanding.

  162. Dear Matt

    Before I forward my comments, I would like to share this article from one of the Somali websites By Liban Obsiye & Abdullahi Warfa
    January 28, 2012

    After more than two decades of civil war, destruction and a roll call of failed leaders (term used as loosely as possible),the British government has decided to host a conference to discuss the way forward for Somalia in February this year. How very generous of Prime Minister David Cameron to join the international community in their concern for the people of Somalia. It would seem the world is working hard to make Somalia a functional state once more but what are Cameron’s main motives behind his New Year resolution and who are the key players?
    David Cameron described Somalia as a failed state in a recent speech that “directly threatens British Interests.” He expressed his concerns for aid workers who were been kidnapped, hijacked ships by Somali pirates leading to higher premium payments for their owners and affecting world trade as well as young Somali British citizens returning to Somali to join extremist groups with the rest of the international Jihadists and creating a real terrorist state. All this is possible but far from reality. Yes, there is piracy and Al- Shabab is a dangerous organisation but what will this conference agree on that is not already happening?
    The African Union troops made of Burundis, Ugandans and Ethiopians are already in the capital fighting Al-Shabab and now they have been joined by the Kenyan’s wanting to secure their borders. Apart from further financial and military assistance what can the British government offer to make the situation different? This conference comes at a time when there is greater intervention in Somalia than any other time before it. The other umpteen conferences on stabilising Somalia which were hosted by many differing African nations did not have the resources that are currently been dedicated to Somalia today.
    Without doubt David Cameron’s decision to tackle the Somali issue is fuelled by the recent success of the Libyan venture which ousted long term despot Colonel Gaddafi. But does he not realise that this is not Libya and that the current TFG led by Sheikh Sharif was not elected by the Somali people? The London conference is also extremely unpopular with a large majority of the expanding Somali community in the UK who seem to be confused by both Britain’s sudden interest and motives.
    “The UK intervention appears to be artificial. It smells of colonial arrogance. England is no longer a world power and quiet insignificant in global affairs so this is an opportunity for them to show their muscles,” said a Somali man who refused to attend the conference in London. “This conference is for the English ego.”
    Another laughed, “Perhaps this conference was sponsored by Migration watch which wants to send Somalis back home or the Association of British Insurers as a means of reducing their own insurance premiums if they have third party insurance themselves. Or Cameron has been sent by the oil lobby to fight for their interest as oil is soon to be dug from Somali regions.”
    Whatever Cameron’s private reasons, his official ones are clear and understandable but this conference has stirred very little interest in the Somali Diaspora as they have been disappointed many times in many different global cities. Nor has it appeared to dent Al-Shabab resolve or inspire hope in those living the nightmare in Somalia and in the refugee camps of East Africa.
    Without doubt the Somali civil war and the ongoing violence need to be resolved as soon as possible. It has cost too much for too long and it threatens the stability of the safer, functioning peaceful parts of Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa. It has destroyed the lives and prospects of an entire generation. It is heartbreaking to know that the young adults today born at the start of the Civil war in 1991 and still living in most of the Southern parts of Somalia have never known peace. For these reasons and more, the Somali situation becomes more desperate by the second.
    Here we go again
    From the past interventions of the then UN General Secretary Boutros Boutros-Ghali to the 2004 Nairobi conference, the Somali people have been listening to promises of state building, peace and a return to normality. What’s wrong with the London conference is that it offers no more hope or solutions than its predecessors and it comes at a time when not all are committed to rebuilding the Somali nation as one unit governed centrally from Mogadishu. However, It will no doubt be an opportunity for the well connected elites, so called experts and government (word used as loosely as possible again) officials to meet, chat, make promises and leave feeling as though they have advanced the Somali people’s cause.
    It will be more important for some than others as the Somaliland delegation which might be lead by the President himself may attend giving Sheikh Sharif and his men the political upper hand and the confidence to undermine the Somaliland cause.
    Whatever is said by whom and how at the London conference, will be of little relevance as in the eyes of the wider Somali community both in Somalia and in the Diaspora, these unrepresentative groups and their colleagues with vested interest will be making speeches for each other. Judging by their disengagement and their pessimism the Somali people have stopped listening to unrealisable political rhetoric, that are made by uncommitted and untrustworthy selected individuals and groups who supposedly exist to represent them. They already know the answers that will materialise at the conference. Greater commitment to tackling terrorist groups and pirates, more aid for the AMISOM troops and the TFG and the continuation of the top down state building mechanism that has thus far failed.
    “Development is a human right and the continuation of the war is a violation of every Somalis human right,” argued a PhD student who did not want to be named. “Although I am not invited in any case, I would never have gone anyway because whatever the decisions and outcomes, Somalia will be governed by deals done in dark corners of dark corridors by immoral and ruthless vultures that live of the degradation and misery of the Somali people.”
    The Somaliland government is still pondering whether to attend the conference in London and if so in what capacity and with whom. The personal visit of the British Deputy Ambassador Chris Allan to Hargeisa, the capital of the self declared independent State of Somaliland, last week will put greater pressure on the Somaliland president to at least send a delegation if he himself will not attend. What is clear though is that the president will not entertain any ideas of a reunification with Somalia. More frustratingly for him and his administration, is that the British government whom they feel ought to be more supportive and vocal about their recognition is shackling them to what for them is a dead corpse. Is Somaliland been sweet talked only to be later forced back into a marriage with a partner it divorced more than 20 years ago?

    There was much celebration of the news that Puntland might be the sight of large reserves of oil. The black gold has been known to change the fortunes of nations and whether it will be a blessing or a curse will be determined in the future if it is found. However, taking into account Somalia’s geographical tribal layout, will Puntland now accept central government interference with its new found fortune? Will Abdullahi Yusuf, the former Puntland president’s leadership of Somalia in the past be enough to convince them to share oil revenues if any materialise? Clearly the task ahead is daunting and it is not one that can even be partially addressed by delegates in opulent setting making grand speeches.
    Hope?
    There is no hope at the moment of the London conference bringing forward any meaningful change in the near future. Yes, English interests are been threatened but by whom? Who are these pirates and kidnappers? What do they seek? Has the poor leadership of the TFG exacerbated the threat? These questions will not be answered or if they are in a biased fashion as those that are crucial to the talks are not present. The Somali people have not been invited yet their unelected foreign crowned bosses have and are been given the legitimacy of a functioning freely elected government. For there to be genuine hope of peace in Somalia, there has to be a shift from top down state building to local community development. The foreign donors and nations must lend a genuine ear to the concerns of differing groups, especially those seeking independence from Somalia and address their concerns. Furthermore, every conference on the future of peace creation and state building must have the Somali people at its heart. This does not and as such it is a pointless conference which will have no legitimacy in the eyes of those it is supposed to help.
    The UK is an important player in the future peace of Somalia as its past strong diplomatic and colonial ties with it are well recognised. In addition the largest number of Somali Diaspora in Europe if not the world live within its borders and it is for their future development and security also that the British government needs to address any threats to British interests in Somalia. However, what is most fearful is that if the British government invests too much hope in this conference and relies too heavily on the so called Somali representatives attending. As if they do, this will be their Black Hawk Down and the victims once again will be the helpless Somali people living through violence and an ongoing humanitarian crisis for the foreseeable future.

  163. Somali at large is now ready for Peace .Unity.and Development put we need capable Somali leader I hope from the bottom of my heart I hope this conference brings good outcomes for the future of somalia..I think International community needs to respect for national sovereignty, territorial Integrity and their right to self-determination yes we need west to support us
    But we will not accept under any occupation intervention by neighbouring Countries particularly Ethiopia and Kenya
    Thank you
    Ali Omar Faarah cosoble

  164. Not sure if these outside players have solution for Somalia. Many of these players are coming from failed states themselves IGAD, The Arab League, Kenya, Ethopian, Uganda – all have similar problems with Somalia. England and France etc are economically failing states. In short, this conference will soon past with out solution. Where we going to have the next farce conference?

  165. please check following link is that discussions papers on the table true or not?

    http://www.qarannews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12696&Itemid=62

    if that is correct will put Somalia under occupation (reason of being failed state is due to intervention by neighbouring countries particularly Ethiopia whether they change their hat under AMISOM or not it is not acceptable for Somalis) & Somaliland is under harm position though you said no harm position, which you undermine its capability as stable countary!!!

    Looking forward to hear from you.

  166. This has educated me, so I thought I should share it with the essayists who comment on this blog.

    The act of union of 1961 clearly states that the Somali Republic should be a democratic one. Once Siad Barre took power the act of union was void by default.

    Forget the emotional side of the argument, but legally Somaliland has every right to persue its own destiny.

    Argue with International law if you disagree.

    http://www.somalilandlaw.com/Act_of_Union_Law_No._5_of_31__January_1961.pdf

    1. there never been a country called somaliland but a region of Northwest somalia.
      people should learn the reality after 20 years of fake-land.

      1. History does not lie. Please accept the facts. The former British Somaliland became independent on June 26 1960, within the borders that it now claims as an independent state. Thirty-five states recognized Somaliland. The U.S. secretary of state, Christian Herter, sent a congratulatory message, and the United Kingdom signed several bilateral
        agreements with Somaliland in Hargeisa on June 26, 1960. Five
        days later Somaliland opted for the sake of Somali unity to join
        with the former Italian Somalia, which became independent on
        July 1, 1960, to form the Somali Republic.

        The union hasnt worked out thats all. Lets move on for the sake of peace and follow the example set by Soaliland.

  167. I think we should think twice when we talking about somaliland or isaaqlanf because two third of northern somalia never believed in so called somaliland as they prefered to call it one clan state.
    In point of view british government should support AWDAL STATE of
    Somalia and KHAATUMO STATE of somalia because of they were brought
    Somalia unification between north and south on july 1 1960
    People of AWDAL STATE & KHAATUMO STATE of somalia standing for
    Great somalia.

  168. Dear Matt Baugh,

    Although I am confident that a man in your position is well aware of the contextual issues prefiguring any debate on the future of Somalia, I will reiterate some key grievances held by Somalilanders:

    * However bad the situation currently is in the TFG and Shabab territories, failure to reinforce a stable, independent state with a proven commitment to democratic values and systems will have disastrous consequences. Posterity will not forgive the feet-dragging and seemingly hypocritical stance of the West, especially given the widely perceived campaigns for regime-change in the post-911 world. The failure of Somalilanders to answer the question, why have we not become the flaunted example of grassroots democracy in Africa reinforces the skeptic and worse still, the conspiracy theorist who urges that the West is primarily interested in economic advantage of the hydro-carbon kind.

    * Regardless of the rhetoric repeated by all sides to the Somali Question, the animosity between Somalilanders and Somalis; between Issaq, Hawiye, and Darod, reduces all federalist talk to nonsense. This business of switching the seat of power to Hargeisa is also both naive and insulting to Somalilanders – and Somalis for that matter who, despite their superficial claims to supporting the idea, would never accept Issaq rulership.

    * The existence of Somaliland has historical and legal precedent. Why we are even debating the legitimacy of self-determination is another grave insult endured by Somalilanders.There have been 19 nations granted independence since 18th May 1991, so I put it to you Mr Baugh – why is Somaliland made to wait for what should be its natural right? When I look at the 19 nations granted independence since Somaliland’s unilateral declaration, the accelerated recognition of ex-Soviet states stands out as pure geopolitical calculation. I wonder what geopolitical calculations prohibit our recognition? One should also keep in mind that the Issaq class what happened to them during and before the civil war as a genocide. I am not about to assess the historical merits of that claim, because I don’t have to – the fact is that this is the over-whelming perception held by Issaq people. We are not about to forget this dark chapter in our history, or be lured into ‘governing’ our southern cousins.

    * An independent and recognised Somaliland will stimulate economic growth in the region. A strong fiscal economy with a developed domestic market paired with our already functioning democratic system will provide the Somalis in the south with a real motivation to embrace peace at all costs. It has not been easy to maintain the peace in Somaliland – but only with lower unemployment and a stronger monetary system; with an education system recognised internationally; and with a passport that enables travel for trade and foreign education, will our fragile peace remain. It goes without saying that an increase in GDP will allow our armed forces to grow in size and sophistication and there is nothing to say Hargeisa will not seek to increase its humanitarian role in the south. But if the international community hesitates for much longer, I fear Somalilanders will feel betrayed and seek the recognition of their interests elsewhere. In a multi-polar world, Britain and our allies should try in earnest not to lose ground to the Chinese. It should be noted that in desperation, radical Islamism thrives. If Somaliland remains unrecognised, the Islamist line that the West only uses democracy as a smoke-screen will undoubtedly gain currency. Failure to recognise Somaliland has the potential to delegitimise the concept of democracy itself among Somalilanders. Another advantage of having a strong economic Somaliland in the region is that it will surely blunt the appeal to extremism.

    I would like to finish by emphasising that I hope, as a Somali and as a Muslim, that the situation in the south resolves quickly and in a manner that best serves the needs of the people. If this could only be manifested through the involvement of Somaliland in southern affairs I would honestly and sincerely support any action necessary. However, I am afraid I am convinced that our continued ‘involvement’ is only a detriment to Somaliland and a distraction to Somalia, who must now do all it can to stabilise its country and support its tired people.

    May God be with us all and guide us to peace and stability.

    Samatar Daud Dahir

  169. DEAR MATT
    Firstly, i would like to re-iterarate my strong believe that United kingdom has huge potential to succeed in its efforts to help somalia stand on its feet once again. however, that success will only materialise if Britain sincerely uses its immense clout both with the different entities with in the somali territory and beyond towards achieving that goal. It is often the case the very institutions that are fundamental for the state to function to be undermined by venal somali politicians and their foreign sponsors.A classic example of this is the road-map itself.A flawed contract between the two least credible politicians in post-warlord somalia and the ugandan president with the aim to prolong their stay in power in defiance of the will of the somali people and that of the rest of the TFG. The success of anything that comes after august 2012 be it another interim administration or permanent arrangement will very much depend on two things.
    1-who leads that administration
    2-commitment by the outside world to help somalia become functioning state once again,which is everybody’s interest.
    Credibility is the essence here,therefore the emerging leadership must be untainted which is why i think the surviving members of modern somali state’s founding figures would be a good choice. To insure the necessary consensus london conference should be as broad based as possible and not conveniently cherry-pcked,why-because it insures the ownership of the process and legitimises the outcome. Finally,attention should be given to the so called dual- track policy which although well-intentioned disincentives the lasting solution that our country needs .

  170. Matt Baugh,

    The U.K needs to play a key role in this reconcilation because lets not kid ourselves, somalis are going to agree on a govt sooner or later considering the oil prospects happening, so its good idea for britain to help somalia now when it is in need because when its not after the oil exploration it will be to late.

    The U.K government is notoriously known for supporting the somaliland administration at the cost of other administrations. Rewarding a region that is dead-set against not participating as a stakeholder in national affairs, yet when other administrations do participate none of them is given any credit. I mean galmudug and puntland who are staunch about not only creating peace for their own regions but also staunch about making sure all somalis enjoy a life of peace and tranquility and participate in Somalia’s national conference in order to achieve this.

    Puntland and Galmudug should be the first stakeholders the U.K engages in the regional areas for creating environments of peace in their areas and also participating in national conferences. Puntland under no obligation had to share its oil with Somalia, but the president farole said this oil is not just for Puntland’s but all Somalis, they can just walk away with it and say we separate from Somalia but thats an easy way out and I’d like to think that history will look back on Puntland in this time of need in Somalia as a staunch peace-maker for somalis and I hope the u.k sees that also.

    Mogadishu is alot more complicating then regional areas, its a city that that is alot more diverse in clan-make up then other regions of Somalia, there is alot more infrastructure in mogadishu then other parts of the country and the fact it is the capital means its the seat of the government. Theres alot more at stake in mogadishu then other regional areas. The power divide is evenly split between clans there which makes it even worse and the fact that it has alot international meddling means factions after factions are born to represent whatever donor their being funded by.

    Politically I think mogadishu should be used a place of remembrance of what war can do and a brand new start begin for somalis and a new capital city selected via voting, I think Baydhabo would be the best option as most somalis would most likely agree to that city.

    I think the shabab elements should be brought into the government and given a chamber in the parliament representing islamic interest for the nation similar to egypt and if people vote for them then let it be. Their will need to be of course a change of direction for shabab on stopping the violence and being moderate but other then that they should be seen as a stakeholder also and they do represent a large religious group around the nation similar to how evangelicals are in America!!!

  171. @mohamoud jama

    The humailiateding defeat of the Italian Fascists by Alliance, then the British military adminstration Italian fascist on somalia trusteeship. Today, the history repeats itself and it repeated in 2012. After 1948 when the United Nations deliberations on the future of what known “the colony aroused patrotic fervor” particularly during the visit of the U.N’s Four- Power Commission delegation in 1948.Britain, France the United States voted a U.N Trusteeship under tutelage. Now, Italian are proposed the same trusteeship to United Nations, Somaliland was excluded and not including now with this new initiative considering it as absolutely nation as usual . Check out the fresh facts: http://hadhwanaagmedia.info/detail.aspx?id=56968

  172. HI ALL Somali Speaking ppl..
    It is funny that we “the fortunate ones” that have access to the world through internet can’t agree on this conference. How will the ppl in Somalia will feel if they were asked? Hmmmmm.. They are the ones that gets shot at, Killed, raped, migrate etc they are the ones that really really see the real problem not us…. we should be more agreeing on some of these issue like Stability. If the Somali intellectuals don’t get along then that is the true waste of energy.. If the London Conference is about “attendance” I am sure there will be a plenty of us – Somalis- there in the Conference but the really question is that are these ppl the ones that can make difference…. I am hoping for the best but I think I will prepare myself for the worst.. sorry but Somalis are a waste of time …

    Abdiqani

  173. i welcome the idea that you carryout intensive consulatation with Somalis and international partners. i also welcome the idea that you have invited Somaliland to the conference as they have a successful story and acute understanding of issues affecting Somali people and perhaps may offer practical ways to rectify the situation. furthermore, i feel that being involve in discussion through your blog is highlighting that Britain’s commitment to engaging wider with the Somalis.

    to ensure the conference is successful and responsive to the Somali needs, we need to be involved in all aspects of consulattion, decission making, implementation and evaluation. Somali people are known to be clan based and ineffective. through strengthening their elderly traditional institution and also building the local stability regions such as Somaliland can better respond to the hearts and minds of somali people. non extremist religion also is vital what can be an inclusive political process. both TFG and road map are ignoring these strains of Somali political system after 20 years.

  174. Why is Somaliland all over this blog, they are trying to act like as if two cities in north somalia is a big issue to maintain peace. I Don’t see war in Puntland and its maintained peace since 1991. What these guys are going on about is beyond me and its not what the topic is about.

    We need to solve Somalia’s problem this is where the major stakeholders of somalis are in the vast majority 95% and this U.K conference needs to focus on this the transition needs to end its been going on since 2000 till now, how long can a government be in transition? 12 years is way to long.

    I suggest development policies towards peaceful areas in Somalia is a good start this can be used to entice people to do good rather then reward conflict. I think its high time the UK tells somaliland to participate in Somalia and lift its weight because every region in Somalia is. I suggest to cut bi-lateral and development assistance to Somaliland untill it starts participating in Somalia because rewarding them to sit idly on the sideline when Puntland is going heads over its shoulder for Somalia and is risking its own stability for the greater good of the nation is not exactly fair.

    I believe this oil development will have huge effect on Somalia as a whole and poverty will be a thing of the past if managed correctly and everyone will see that their is enough to go around so why fight.

    The TFG in mogadishu need more capacity and funding, for example what happen to the brussels fund? the instanbul pledge? None of this reaching the average person in mogadishu, the people at the local level need to see that the government is actually providing services for them and not just merely taking a pay-cheque and attending conference at flashy hotels, this is very crucial and streghtening the TFG is a good way to win back the locals in mogadishu to the government. This why the ICU courts were so popular they actually provided services to the people who havent seen that for 20 years.

    The road-map will need to include all stakeholders, I agree totally but which stakeholders? the stakeholders who committed war-crimes and being rewarded with parliamentarian seats? how can someone who is a local in mogadishu look at that govt and say its actually good government when its got people in it who committed horrendous crimes against somali people over 20 years, the locals will just lose faith in it.

    The road-map should include the elders. I believe the elders should be all elected by their own communities and we are talking about elders with a good track record and a nationalist vision. Their will need to be a strict criteria on who can be an elder of a community. Once the elders of each clan and region is represented they should elect their mps in the constituent parliament and again the mps must fit a strict criteria and have a good track record themselves. The mp’s then vote for the government. This can work well untill 2016 untill national elections can occur.

    The Govt needs to be of a federal nature so that not one city or man has all the power and that it is shared through-out the region. We tried the centralism route before in Somalia History and we know the devastating effects it has had on the nation as a whole.

    The federal system will bring about ownership and everyone in each city and town will feel they are stakeholder of the government and will cherish it and protect it. Infact have you noticed that in places such as Bosaso alot of the business-men go into shareholder arrangements in their companies because this will mean that everyone in that city will feel they own it and will protect it.

    However in mogadishu we remember what happened to the siyad barre’s government property it was destroyed and looted because they didnt feel like it was theirs and felt it was another clans and infact they protect their own properties at bakaraha which re-iterates my point.

    The govt should be of a federal nature so all stakeholders feel ownership of it and will protect it, this will guarantee that not one man can dictate his authority and power over the nation and will need to consult with various stakeholders(checks and balances). This will create an environment of competition at the regional level where regional states compete against each other to build their state and jurisdictions and the only people who win are the locals.

    Where-as if we go back to a central format stakeholders will think the govt is a product of a city and a clan namely mogadishu. Competition will be non-existent at the local level except in mogadishu where everything will be invested into while other regions fall behind. Infact people back in the old days couldn’t even get secondary education in their regional cities and had to move to mogadishu. All the infrastructure was in mogadishu. All the government was in mogadishu. When war time came everything collapsed cause everything was in mogadishu.

    So untill 2016 I think a federal parliament mp should be elected by clan-elders good clan elders who are patriotic and not clan orientated and have good reputation among somalis and are well respected. We need to then hav chamber for regional authorities representing their regional governments so their can be no regional and federal conflict. The MPS(must also have good track record) should vote for the president and prime minister. The prime minister and president form the government choosing their cabinet based on people’s good track records and not who they are or who they know criteria.

    I believe the above system will work fine in Somalia untill 2016 and then the people will need to be involved and elections happening at the ground level where citizens vote for who they want as their government and the candidates running for presidency must be all of high calibre and have solid reputaton in their community and the nation.

    As for regional authorities I believe the international community should support peaceful administrations in development so the regional admins do not lose local support which can cause locals to join shabab and pirates and so forth. I believe regional authorities not participating in Somalia peace conferences and stabilising troublesome areas of the nation shoud lose their funding and bi-lateral ties cut because it is not fair Djibouti sends troops to stabilise mogadishu, Puntland is hosting conferences and also sending troops to mogadishu from 2004-2009 under Abdulahi Yusuf government to restore law and order but noone in the international community cares and more development and political support goes to somaliland regional authority who doesnt participate in Somalia peace conference (why is that do they want war for other somalis), they do not assist in any way, shape or form. They are the ones who are head of shabab and causing destruction in Somalia. But the international community ignores this and continues to support it developmentally so why would they change their policy their being rewarded for it as it is.

    1. The northwest area of Somaliland is
      more stable, and in the summer of
      2010 a new democratically elected
      government was formed in the region.
      Puntland, which covers the northeast
      part of Somalia and includes the Horn
      itself, is somewhat stable. It is, however, in Puntland that a large amount
      of the piracy is based.

      (Strategy for the Danish counterpiracy effort 2 0 11 – 2 0 1 4
      Ma y 2 0 11)

  175. Matt,
    My take on this, is that the British government is putting the cart before the horse. It’s a time David Carmon and his collegues to come in realization and stop wasting of the hard-earned tax payers money in this current difficult econimic down turn.

    It’s a time for an alternative on calling a spade a spade by rewarding the achievers such as Somaliland,( thus, it could curb the spill over violance based on religion ideoligy movements from the Somalia), and in the meantime bringing the culprits who are behind the on going chaos and anarchy in somalia to crimal justice.
    It’s self evident that the piracy in Puntland, alshabab’s attachs in Mogadishu and spiral out of control civil war in the entire southern Somalia is a direct result of the western nations reluctance and their political correctness approach to find a lasting peace and stability in region.

    I wouldn’t count on the southern somalis to find a resolution for their own internal issues due to their impiared judgement influenced by tribal affiliation and fear of domination. As it says repeating the same mistake over and over again in search of hoping a different resul is a defination of insanity.

    Thanks,
    Osman Ibrahim,

    ottawa, Canada

    1. So ‘Somaliland’ wants to cede because of fear being dominated?, i think you will find the people of Buuhodle share your sentiment. In a federal system every region will be able to run it’s affair and there will be no need for any clan to dominate any other clan.

      1. Somaliland doesn’t have a system that pleasess every Somalilander. that’s been said, we should be able to trust each other and work towards a unity, respect and a set of common goals. We’re a lot smarter than the Somalis.

        Osman Ibrahim,
        Ottawa, Canada

        1. osman,
          smart people do not express themselves the way you behaved.
          what you are revelects on your comment.

          1. Matt,
            As it seems the forum is slightly drifting away from the fundamental objectives of the conference in London on somalia.
            Somalia is a fail state. Unfortunately it’s peoples are not prepared to recognize or learn from their own repeated mistakes, they’re unwell, period!

            In contrast, Somaliand has innovatively found a home grown demoractric system that serves it’s people. It’s been functionig flawlessly for over 2 decade. No further proof is required, therefore, it’d make more sence if the Somalilander officials that will be at the meeting to prescribe a pill or at least recommend a formula that serves for Somalis as well.
            Puntland and Galgudud are harbering pirates and ill-minded religious groups respectively in their own backyards, my logic tells me they’re part of the problem in Somalia.
            We’ll no longer afford to turn a blind eye on Somalia consequently, a way forward must established in which will coincide the end mandate of TFG in Augost.

            Another dry-run conference would have devastaded effects not only in East Africa but on the entire world.

            We’ve already witnessed an exodus of Somali teenagers returned from western Europe as well as North America to join Alshabab fighters. We can not predict what might Somalia’s chronic lack of leadership breed next.

            Osman Ibrahim
            Ottawa, Canada

          2. Somalia is failed state because it’s clans brought down the central government and replaced it with ‘regional fiefdoms’, every major clan has a president and wants to run it’s region as ‘Independent Republic’. I hope it’s time the British ended this farce. The world should help Somalia build a strong federal government.

  176. The intervention of foreign troops has saved many lives and take some more. But long-term, foreign-sponsored formulas for solving crises have ended in failure, largely because they deliberately ignore the main aspirations of the Somali people, for national sovereignty, territorial integrity and their right to self-determination for example Somaliland.

    All you need is to learn from other nations for example Scotland which will have referendum for independence, so if has been decided Somali union is ok. if majority says independent let us have recognition.

    Not terrorism by force of SSC and Khatumo. (same coins with different face).

    1. The people of Sool,Sanaag and Ayn certainly know where the aggression is coming, ‘Somaliland’ will never be independent so slong as half it’s population and lands want to remain within the recognised republic of Somalia.

      Maybe you should come to your senses like your friend [Faysal Ali Warabe] from UCID.

      taleex.net/2012/01/29/muxuu-la-calaacalayaa-faysal-waraabe-dhagayso
      Listen to the audio.

  177. I wonder the London Conference, despite the possible exageration, will not silve the somali problem since it is not a somali conference by somali societies.

    It seems to me it will sow the seeds of enmity between the somali population_ especially in Somaliland.

    I think the international community needs to respect the choice of the people in Somaliland to be separate from the rest of Somalia.

  178. Soomalay dhiigiina kala badbaadsha. Garta inaad isla akhridaan shaleytadaada, maantadaan la joogo iyo berritoole. Waxaan soo qadanayaa ereyadii Abwaan Gaarriye oo wuxuu yiri:
    Dharaar baa iman doonta haddaan Ebahay ceymin afku hadalka daayo. Dharaar baa iman doonta dab munaafaq istaadhay sidii aayar aayar gubtaa ama duur olol taabtay arligoo dhan dhameeya. Dharaar baa iman doonta iyadoo iswada weydey oodo loo rogi doono. Dharaar baa iman doonta Imaradka sidoodiyo ninba aag ku go’doomo. Dharaar baa iman doonta dadka Sool iyo Awdal ee aadanow hagrateen raacdadoodo adkaato lagu raadsho ileys. Dharaar baa iman doonta irsiqa laysku cidhiidhyo wax la uunto la waayo. Dharaar baa iman doonta mujrim oogo madow islaam sheeganayaa agablaay hambadaada isa sii kaba raacsho. Ku darsoo Axmed doolow waxaan ahay xog ogaaloo hir fog baan arkaayaa orna waa maqlaaya waxna way urayaan. Aaminaay waan gabyayaa nin abwaanana waan ahoo ereygiisu tuf leeyahay. Hadeydaan I adeecinoo ergedaan ahay manta ka abaal ka dhacdaan Ilaahay balankii ibtilaa dhici doonta.
    Dhulkay eyro ku fooftana Afrikaan madmadowiyo Ajnabaa degi doona iyagaa talin doona. Allaw na badbaadi!

  179. London Conference on Somalia: ONE DAY:
    – to cover 7 large areas on the agenda;
    – hear from 40+ countries in attendance;
    – allow a multitude of Somali factions to make their point
    – address 21 years of conflict;
    – discuss up a storm on international efforts on Somalia
    – follow up?????

    How long is the conference suppose to last? It makes me exhausted just thinking about it. Perhaps we should approach this with a healthy dose of skeptism on what can be accomplished in one day!

    1. This shows that maybe the contracts are pre-written and the 40 countries are just spectators to what Somalia will HAVE to sign, rather then a discussion on the way forward for Somlia.
      Mr Baugh, I would like to ask, on what basis will the people representing Somalia be chosen? will this be the typical 60+ yr old men who have been the root of all problems in Somalia, or will there be a much needed shift towards the younger, more educated, more patriotic and less tribalistic youth of Somalia. Who chooses exactly who occupies those seats in the conference? What is the UK government going to do to ensure that Somalis are in control and not controlled?
      A reply from Mr Matt Baugh would be highly appreciated

  180. The cofference clearly aimed for the international donors to engage the Somalia’s stakeholders in terms of peace and stabilyt in the region.

    I found quite intriguing that the British government has placed Somaliland the same category as Puntland, Galgadud and other tribal affilliates spinoffs in Somalia. it’s very ironic indeed!

    Thanks, OZ

  181. The London conference should engage the four main clans in northern Somalia through their traditional elders,and not the one clan dominated enclave known as Somaliland.To do less would be a tarvesty of justice
    A number of articles have been written recently about the secessionist enclave known as Somaliland which seek to portray it as a stable democratic nation.The recently concluded elections there have been touted as a milestone and many of your contributors have been urging the recognition of Somaliland based on this and other factors such as the stability and peace enjoyed by this northern enclave.The rest of Somalia,particularly the south,ravaged as it is by al shabab terrorists and an embattled Amisom backed TFG,is held up as the very antithesis of the idyllic haven in the north.This rhetorical and ideological combat launched by the supporters of Somaliland is often underwritten by that familiar imperial discourse which compares the civilized to the savage,the north to the south and the colonizer to the colonized.It is no wonder that imperial scholars such as IM Lewis and his ilk are often the most vocal in their support of Somaliland as a separate entity worthy of soverinty and recognition.In pushing for the discourse of a seaparate f Somaliland,these proponents of secession perpetrate several myths which are easily shattered under careful scrutiny.
    The myth of Somaliland’s uniqueess and difference from Somalia is shattered bu the fact that all Somalis,from Djibouti toEastern Ethiopia,to Northern Kenya speak the same language,share the same religion,tradition and customs.Regional differentiation in terms of dialects do not in any way hamper Somalis from interacting socially and economically,and intermarriage between the clans is rife.The clans inhabiting Somaliland also spill over into Djibouti,Ethiopia and other parts of Somalia.And while Somaliland portrays itself as an inpependant unitary nation,the truth is that it is composed of four major clans ie the Isaaq,Dhulbahante,Issa,Warsangeli and Gudabirsi, and that these clans do not all subscribe to the separation of Somaliland from the rest of Somalia.Indeed the complete domaination of the Isaaq clan from the Berbera-Hargeisa-Burao Triangle in Somaliland politics informs the secessionist agenda.The Dhulbahnate,who occupy the Eastern third of Somaliland do not ascibe to separatism and indeed have launched an armed political movement to expel the Somaliland presence from their ancestral land under the banner of a movement named after the regions they occupy,known as SSC(Sool,Sanaag and Cayn),under the leadership of Suleiman Issa Haglatosiye and now known as Khaatumo State of Somalia under the lesdership of the former Aviation Minister of Puntland His Excellency President Ahmed Elmi Karaash.This regional state was recently established by delegates from all corners of SSC including traditional and religious leaders,women and youth leaders as well as academics like Professor Ali Khalif Galaydh,the former Prime Minister of Somalia and upholds the principle of Somali territorial integrity and pledges its loyalty to the TFG of Somalia.
    The myth of Somaliland as the only island of stability in an ocean of Somali chaos does little to convince anyone with even a glancing familiarity with Somali politics.Except for Mogadishu and its environs,most of Notheastern,Central and southern Somalia are favorably compared to Somaliland.they have formed similar administrations such as Puntland and Ahlusunna wal Jama.Even the shabab controlled regions of the south have a rudimentary administration,regardless of whether one agrees with their religious extemesim or methods.Somalia has hotspots of conflict and they are found in Somalia and Somaliland.However due to neglect and suppression of news,the conflicts in Somaliland are rarely,if ever reported by both the Somali and international media.There are no media reports for example of the deadly struggle of the SSC and their struggle aginst Somaliland’s occupation of their land.There is no mention of the the creeping genocide in eastern Somalia where Isaaq militias are depopulating areas belonging to Dhulbahante and Warsangeli clans.There is no mention of the flight of the citizens of Las Anod Town in eastern Somaliland since the occupation of the town by Somaliland.A cursory check at the refugee population in Kenya’s refugee camps will show the presecnce of at least 20,000 Dhulbahante’s who have fled the torture,arbitrary arrests misery and deprecations of Somaliland’s occupation of their hometowns.
    The myth of democracy and fair elections in Somaliland belies the fact that tht most of somaliland’s clans are excluded from the political process.Out of the three parties allowed to run for office ie UCID,Kulmiye and Udub, the former two are headed by Isaaqs and the later is deputized by an Isaaq.Three of the major clans in Somaliland ie the Issa,Dhulbahante and Warsanageli have no significant presence in any of these parties.It is a formula designed to ensure either an Isaaq or their lackey wins any Somaliland election.There is no room constitutionally for any other partiesthus effectively consigning large segments of the territories poilpulation to political and economic oblivion.The same formula pervades all institutions of Somaliland,from the civil service,civil society,media and military.This façade of a democracy and free elections is maintained and enhanced by the same Isaaq diaspora that made the bulk of the so-called international observers in the recently concluded elections.No mention was made of the fact that large areas of Eastern Somaliland violently prevented the sham pretense of an election in their regions.

  182. The London conference should support Khaatumo State of North Somalia
    As we are all aware the UN, through its representative Augustine Mahiga are involved in a finding a lasting solution to the political crisis in Somalia, through intense diplomatic and political facilitation on their part.As the Secretary-General’s Special Representative, Mr Mahiga should not only concentrate on Somaliland and Puntland,but should also get involved in engaging emerging regional administrations like Khaatumo State,which have been created through the will of the people of Sool,Sanaag and Cayn(SSC) Regions of Northern Somalia.The UN and the TFG cannot just turn a blind eye to the Taleh Conference where representatives of all sectors of society including intellectuals,politicians,religious and traditional elders,businesspeople,women and youth,from SSC regions unanimously voted to establish their own regional administration,separate from Puntland and Somaliland.The UN and the TFG should also condemn the naked aggression of Somaliland against the people of Khaatumo State where Somaliland’s’s tribal janjaweed militia attacked and massacred the sleeping residents of Buuhoodle Town. The UN is obliged to protect innocent civilians who have died because of supporting the TFG government and their own regional administration of Khaatumo state,but it has sadly been quiet on this.The TFG and Puntland administrations have both condemned the massacre of civilians in Buuhoodle by the Somaliland militia ,and I wonder why the UN has been silent on this issue. The Security Council needs to send a strong signal that these continuous attacks on civilians will no longer be tolerated and Siilaanyo should be prosecuted before the ICC. I call upon the The international community to intervene in the creeping genocide that is being perpetrated by Somaliland against the people of SSC.

    We are all aware that the UN and the TFG have been paralysed in responding to the constant genocide being carried out by Somaliland against the peaceloving people of Khaatumo State.Khaatumo State needs the deployment of the TFG, and the UN in the region ,since Khaatumo State recognizes the TFG as the sole legitimate authority in Somalia, to work together with the regional authority to help stabilize the region.KhaatumoState is commited to political reach out, reconciliation, security, good governance and a new political dispensation under a united,federal Somali Government and should be included in the roadmap on ending the transition period of the TFG.We know that the UN is striving to achieve its goal for all local, regional and clan based administrations across the whole of Somalia to engage with the TFG on an inclusive process to define the framework of the future political dispensation, based on agreed principles derived from the Somali constitution making process.
    Khaatumo State wants to ensure that the unity and stability of the TFG government by enhancing UNPOS political interaction on the ground between the TFG, and Khaatumo State.The key to the restoration of durable peace and security in Somalia rests with the establishment of functional regional bodies which support the TFG.Khaatumo State supports the UN strategy to broaden political outreach to regional and local administrations outside Mogadishu. Khaatumo State is determined to take control of its own destinies in a similar way to Somaliland and Puntland. It therefore needs to be engaged not just by the International Community in their dual track approach, but also by the TFG in order to seek a broader acceptance of the Draft Constitution which is under discussion now. Dialogue with Khaatumo State is an excellent way of reaching out to the wider Somalia and and I am confident that the UN and the TFG will support talks between regions and groups who wish to follow the path of peace and reconciliation
    I am aware that UNPOS has prepared an overall political and civilian strategy for Somalia with a priority focus on broadening the political base for reconciliation reaching out to regional and local administrations, institution capacity building, enhancing TFG legitimacy, constitutional consultations and formation of successor political arrangements. I urge the UN and the TFG to engage the autonomous administrations of Khaatumo State, and to deploy a political coordinator to the Administration.
    Khaatumo State advocates progress in the political peace process, security, reconstruction, development and humanitarian pillars. The state needs provision of basic services including the provision of food, sanitation and clean drinking water. It also needs rehabilitation and effective operationalisation of most of the hospitals and medical facilities, and the reopening of educational institutions. It needs above all, an economic strategy to generate incomes and employment and a way of weaning Somali youth away from the conflict and to divert their energies towards more productive activities.
    Finally I would request all stakeholders and partners of the TFG in the international community and regional actors such as the African Union, IGAD, the European Union, the League of Arab States and individual member states to support Khaatumo state of Somalia and to engage the new administration in a partnership to achieve peace, stability, recovery and development in Somalia.
    Mohamoud Jama

  183. Great read. But we are not hearing the views and the political opinions of those Somalis who neither read nor write the English language. Dear Matt it is time to hear and accomodate their perspectives too.

  184. Hi Matt,

    Since you want to gather the views of the Somalis on the way forward, may I post the following article on here as it touches upon most of the issues covered on the declared agenda.

    Solutions: London Somali Conference & Somalia and Somaliland.

    The British Prime Minster, David Cameron announced that his government will be holding a conference on Somalia in London on 23rd February 2012 which will discuss a wide range of issues including:

    Enhancing Security and Stability.
    Tackling Islamic Extremism and Piracy.
    Addressing the root causes of the Somali conflict.
    Agreeing on coordinated international package of support for Somalia’s regions.

    Whilst, there have been a number of conferences held to revive the Somali state and install a working government in Somalia this is the first of its kind to bring all Somali stakeholders as well as important world leaders and Non-Governmental Organisations together, outside of the region. Moreover, the London conference proposes a substantially broader and arguably more focussed agenda, as set out above.

    It offers all parties and stakeholders, exceptional opportunities in driving progressive change towards peace, security and stability. A negative outcome for either of the principle protagonists particularly and Somaliland, also presents the great risk of inadvertently escalating and widening the risk of regional instability, in a way not imagined by the international community. As hard as it is to believe for outsiders, the nightmare of South Central can actually get worse. Anticipation of the outcomes of the London conference has already raised the temperature in the Somali polity, both in country and across the various international diasporas. This article is an attempt to chart a way forward for Somalis and generate practical ideas/recommendations.

    It is clear that piracy and extremism are the driving force for the London conference, with every other consideration, essentially a secondary afterthought, as they most directly impinge upon western economic and security interests. Particularly, Britain is worried that the impact may be felt on its streets as it hosts large Somali diaspora. However, it would be a mistake to give priority to these two subjects over the root causes of the conflict. Any outcome that does not address this will be patchy and unsatisfying. Piracy and extremism are not the causes of the Somali civil war but they are the product of it, and as long as the Somalis are engaged in civil strife the obvious implications would be a raise of piracy and extremism in the region.

    Clearly the establishment of a viable working government which is able to exert its authority across the country would be a major step forward in security and stability. But the extent that this will happen will largely depend upon the agreements of this conference. Will it address the stark realities on the ground? Will it open up “new roads”? Will it facilitate an amicable negotiated settlement between Somaliland and Somalia? These are the obstacles and the barriers that sectionalise and fragment Somalis. A clear understanding of the existing conditions and the past failed conferences should result not of similar actions or outcomes. The culmination of cultural influences, tribal rivalries, individualistic ambitions and a bloody civil war rendered Somalis incapable of reconciling their respective positions with the practical way forward. So the issue of security and stability in Somalia has to be looked at in a two tier approach i.e., Somalia and Somalia and Somaliland.

    Somalia.

    Apart from the failure of the Somalia’s politicians, traditional elders, religious figures and intellectual group, the single most important reason why Somalia remained in conflict for over twenty years, is the international community’s inability to coordinate its policies and test them against tangible results. The policies thus far were aimed at achieving limited and short term objectives. Every individual government of the international community was taking its own measures in accordance with its own interests, and was happy to deal with any group that could assist the realisation of these objectives. Even the current military intervention was not well coordinated between the alliances from the beginning. Therefore, a close cooperation between the interested groups in handling the Somali affairs is essential. International community must coordinate its funding, military operations and its engagement with the representatives of the Somali people.

    The UN and the other NGOs in Nairobi have failed on all these accounts, and as a direct consequence of their actions threatened the security of Somaliland and the stable places in Somalia. By engaging with anyone who claims the authority of his people and providing funds without accountability created the impression that establishing a mini state would generate more income for development in that area or offer an opportunity to fulfil leadership ambition.

    Direct funding to Somalis and the Somali government should be conditioned upon positive results. They should not be used to create insecurity in the region. Also authority should not be extended to anyone who mobilises a few henchmen and the diaspora to cause instability. Pressure must be brought to bear on the Transitional Government to observe and reinforce security, and not deal with those who intend to destabilise the peaceful parts of the country or in Somaliland. The TFG is quick to extend a hand of friendship and treat as a representative to anyone from Somaliland, who opposes the Somaliland’s right to self-determination with violent means. That is not a good way to create harmony among Somalis.

    The working relationship between the TFG and the other regional administrations must be improved. There has to be a clear picture of what Somalia should look like in their minds so that it becomes easier to see where the converging point is. Although they are all busy with fighting Al-Shabab, there is no guarantee that they all agree upon how Somalia should be run. The divisions may become more apparent when the unifying threat evaporates. This is even more critical for counter-terrorism and counter-piracy. Until now some regional administrations considered their economic interests to be aligned with piracy and allowed the pirates to operate in their areas at will. This is where the provisions of regional financial assistance that is dependent upon good governance and regional development becomes very important. In many ways, the introduction of a Joint Financial Management Board with the ability to scrutinise where/who is getting funds and how they are being spent is a very welcome idea.

    These are remedies to increase the chances of recovery but as to the prevention of piracy, eradication of extremism and the mitigation of natural disasters, more far-reaching in its implication is the proper lack of authority in the country. Somaliland has shown, with functioning government, that these could be prevented or mitigated. In 1993, the extremists first attempted to set up a training camp in Somaliland but Mohammed Ibrahim Egal’s government raided their camps, confiscated their equipment and disbanded them. Somaliland fights piracy and has made it impossible for pirates to operate on its shores. The recent famine that has devastated Horn of Africa affected Somaliland too but the aid agencies had unhindered access and the government was in a good position to organise a relieve effort. These are clear evidence that proper authority works but achieving it in Somalia is proving to be a difficult challenge. This is why there is an urgent need for addressing the root causes of the conflict and settling the issue of Somaliland and Somalia.

    Somalia and Somaliland

    Most from Somalia would unhesitatingly cry out for Somali unity but their vision is coloured by twenty years of conflict to the extent that they have developed amnesia about how they got here in the first place. Somalia has never been internally united. After the initial emotionally charged euphoria of the unlawful union of the 1960, the real structures of the Somali way of life had emerged. As I mentioned in detail in another article, the cultural tribal formation of the Somali people means there has never been a natural bondage between the Somalis. Distrust and suspicion always replace the shared commonalities.

    Somaliland people remember the civil war, the brutal legacy of the Siad Barre’s regime, the economic and intellectual oppression, the violation of their basic human dignity and the ethnic cleansing. These are grim memories which awaken opposition to remarriage with Somalia. If Somalia and Somaliland do not come to a negotiated settlement, it is more than probable that they may go to war again. The sense of uncertainty has already been exploited by those individuals who (with their short-sighted views and interests) are intent on piling new problems on top of the existing ones in the region. Somaliland is driven by grass root support and politicians risk their careers if they are seen to be accepting something detrimental to Somaliland’s independence. That support is the pillar and the guardian of the Somaliland’s existence. Given the confidence and the convictions of the Somaliland people in their independence, something has to give and that can only mean war or separation.

    Charles De Gaul once said, “History does not teach fatalism. There are moments when the will of a handful of free men breaks through determinism and opens up new roads”. The Somali conference in London must think boldly and seek to find a new road. Somalis must understand they are rebuilding a nation from scratch and for the sanity of their children and the future generations accept that the conditions are against Somali unity. Therefore, peaceful coexistence in a two state solution is the only viable option. However, to give a chance to those who still dream about gaining Somali unity one day, the Somaliland recognition should be given on the following conditions:

    A referendum must be held for Somaliland succession in thirty years’ time. This is to give the people an opportunity to cast their votes in a less emotionally charged atmosphere.
    The respective two states should treat their respective peoples as citizens of their own in respect of movement, residence, trade and business until the referendum takes place. Only voting should be excluded unless proven the person resided the said country for three years continuously and this should only apply in local and presidential elections but not in the referendum. This is to foster closeness and a sense of belonging between the two nations so when the referendum comes, the result is a representation of measured individual judgement.
    Somaliland must assist Somalia in its search for peace and form a close cooperation with her.
    Both countries must establish a common historical narration (which is impartial and truthful) to teach their school children so that the young generations learn from the mistakes of their fathers.

    Source: Somaliword.blogspot.com

  185. It’s all well and good Helping somalia to stand on it own 2 feet..The people of somalia are cursed with politicians and country’s meddling in there affairs……Let’s hope this task David Cameron has taking on Results in something that can restore peace and stability in the country. Now Somaliland, Somaliland, Somaliland You catch my drift? That is totally a different country, The size of Wales and England. Somalia And Somaliland must not be confused…..They Are two separate country. Somaliland is searching for its history which it lost when it marched to Mogadishu in 1960 to join somalia and continue the hunt for the D-Djibouti, NFD-A part of Kenya Now Ogden-Part of Ethiopia Now This was suppose to be The Somalia 5..like the United states of somalia…. Although there was never ever a something called Greater Somalia with single central government, The Ethnic people of Somali’s recognised that since they have lived in these lands they should have the final say. The British colonialist The French, The Italians, The Kenyan, and The Ethiopians All of these have destroyed that dream….The Somaliland Dream……After joining there brothers in Mogadishu the people of Somaliland was rewarded with so much injustice Government after government and The people of Somaliland realised that The mission for The Five United Somalia was abandoned And they have become the victims of The Mogadishu government It took 20 years of marginalising, Killing, Torturing , Pillaging of the people’s wealth and land To come to a conclusion that The government’s in Mogadishu are not in the game of looking out for the people of Somaliland interest. It was time to take up arms and it took A another 15 Years of killing mercilessly to cause the Mogadishu government to flee from Somaliland. It’s in the interest of the somalia and Somaliland and the world in general to deal with Somaliland And Somalia as a two different country’s. In 1991 Somaliland announced that it has withdrew from somalia since it joined voluntarily, Somaliland has got a elected government A House Of Parliament And A house of elders and all the Baggage of Thriving government……..One thing lacks and that is a International recognition and that is been with held because of international hypocrisy. What Somaliland wants is (1) For the international community to stand up and rely on historical facts and officially recognised Somaliland. That goes for every country as well. (2) The Mogadishu weak Transitional Government should be told to forget about Somaliland…………..

  186. the somali problem,that tiny nation has been on the news headlines ever since i was growing up and as the years pasted the anarchy got stronger and stronger,coming back to the main point of this debate the london confrence ,i think the world has turn a blind eye the so called governments such as tfg led by sharif former terrorist leader[ISLAMIC COURTS UNUIN] on the atherside you ve puntland state WHICH HOSTS 90% of pirates and the so called government re share holders of the piracy business [LORD OF THE PIRATES] AND now there is a new pirate lord called galmudug this lord specializes human kidnapping and made millions of dollars out of that evil trade,, but the amazing is that the international community supports these Crookes for the last 20 odd years ,,,finally THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF SOMALItish AND,,,somaliland former bris

  187. This will surely end in failure and wasted time and money as did many foreign led attempts to solve the Somali issue.
    The main reason for that is the so called international community do not fully comprehend the complicated religious and tribal loyalties that exit in Somalia, and as always the invited Somalis are out only for their selfish agendas.

  188. Hello Matt,
    As I posted before to hear an all-inclusive aspect of the discussion from all Somalis post your topics also in somali language and “allow” us to have at least a semblance of dignity and ownership. This reminds me of when I was a little kid going to Scuola Elementare Guglielmo Marconi in Mogadishu of our Italian teachers punishing us (somali kids) because we were conversing in Somali during recess. Or maybe I am barking under the wrong tree and this forum is only for the enough westernized Diasporas who can deliver what was already pre-established!

  189. Thank you Matt .I thought UK Government and their important partender had already planed the out come of the London conference .i have doute whether is usefully of our answer .any way i remained you
    the (Tfg Somalia ) they are not able to risiste any thing to UK or international contact group .
    they remember former prime Minster mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo. never the less we hope some thing positive for all of us.

  190. Thank Matt and UK in Somalia mission too.
    The ROAD MAP is not really understood by most of the Somali people and is looking like that it is not widely accepted.
    The first bad thing in it is, that the ROAD MAP is based upon 4,5 and that is what the TFG is made of in Kenya 2004 and everyone can see that the TFG is not ever lasting solution for Somalia.

    To make the ROAD MAP work please make it all inclussive, not that some of the Somali people are discrimnated in their own country.
    Thanks

  191. I think the TFG needs resources at the moment, the south and unlike north somalia has had 20 years of destruction. The TFG should be supported in it’s effort of building government institutions like military,police and judicial system. Somalia should also get help to build it’s civilian institutions like schools, hospitals, and other infrstructures.

    A national army is vital in order for this fragile nation to police it’s borders and and keep out religious exremist and solve the problem of land and sea piracy.

    With a neutral army and police, the political players will be forced to use civil means for political solution instead of arms. While most somalis would welcome a ‘federal system’ i hope for my side that it’s strong enough to be able to sort out any regional failings, example the Buuhodle situation or the dispute between puntland and Galgadug in Galkayo.

  192. I do not think that agreement was reflecting on Somalia’s ambitions, wishes, inspirations but was representing the two parties who had power struggle in MOGADISHO. Because the Djibouti agreement was between The Transitional Federal Government (TFG) of Somalia and the Alliance for Re-liberation of Somalia (ARS) attending a meeting from 31 May to 9 June 2008 in Djibouti, facilitated by the UN. This could be politcal base for South of Somalia

    As This was lacking even putting into consideration Somaliland issue who had free and fair election with the UKs support while Djibouti agreement decided territorial integrity of Somalia and disregarded and abandoned wishes of Somaliland. There is need putting parallel initiative which is referendum of independence of Somaliland with supervision of UN.

    We know Somaliland had democratic elections which had been described by international monitors as free and fair elections, with your UK support that will be setback to try to put Somaliland under another initiave which was not manifesto of elections in Somaliland

    Failure of Somaliland stability will only result by taking part Garowe road map which will lead Somali land to become as South of Somalia which then will have national and international implications on security, piracy, famine, increasing refugee and asylum seekers into the west.

    Therefore will be good for the South of Somalia for the Garowe road map.

      1. Mariao iam originally from Buhodle, khatumo leaders who came abroad they arrange SSC which are terrorists to make trouble so they can fulfill their political agenda. PLEASE STOP SOLICITING THOSE ARE AGAINST DEMOCRACY.

        1. The people of Buuhodle have not aggressed against no one, ‘Somaliland’ has no authority on any northern regions and towns that don’t want to be part of Hargeisa hegemony. We know who the terrorist are in this incident and certainly not the innocent people of Buuhodle.

    1. samsam
      You are not entitled to pretend from SSC while you are not.
      Mr Matt, please note that this person is not representing the area she is claiming. some one from hargeysa or burco or berbera is not acting
      abond SSC regions which has already created its own Khatumo State of Somalia.

  193. Thank you Rep. Baugh,
    Could you please elaborate as to what you might mean by the following:

    “To be successful in helping take Somalia out of conflict, the Garowe process needs to be representative, and mechanisms should be found to ensure that all communities in Somalia, including those in the south, are represented in the discussion. This is about placing the Somali people at the heart of the process – in short, what you might call ‘Garowe-Plus’.”

    I thank you,

  194. Ahmed Silanyo, the president of the self-styled government of “Somaliland”, the clan state that no country on the face of earth accepted its legitimacy, has recently dispatched his ministers to the cities and towns in the enclave to organize public demonstrations against what he described as anti-Somali-landers (nabad-diid), a euphemism exclusively used for Khaatumo State of Somalia which was established in the historic town of Talex a few weeks ago and Awdalstate, the precursor of Khaatumo state. Both states and their people reiterated their commitment to the Somali unity in the face of mounting pressure from the secessionists, whose mission for separation appeared seamless until recently, at least in their deluded minds. Ahmed Abdi Xaabsade, loaded with inducement money from Ahmed Silanyo’s office, arrived in Las Anod to bribe people into staging fake demonstrations in support of his paymasters. Xaabsade’s false deception that the people of Las Anod want to be part of “Somaliland” is ridiculously akin to Gadhafi’s last gasp and desperate “my people love me” interview with Jeremy Bowen of the BBC. On the contrary, the people of Las Anod want to see the back of secessionists camping outside their city.

    As widely expected people turned out in droves against Xaabsade and rejected his separatist SNM project by staging counter demonstrations that was deliberately turned into violence after the occupying army of SNM sprayed live bullets into crowds consisting mainly of women andchildren. Scores of people have suffered bullet wounds while at least two people are believed to have lost their lives. In this demonstration, the Las Anod people have clearly shown the secessionists that their true allegiance is with Khaatumo state of Somalia and not with the separatist clan-state of “Somaliland”.

    The Las Anod failure was followed by Awdal rejection when several ministers from Awdal, again loaded with bait money from the separatists in Hargeisa, tried their luck in Borama. According to reliable sources in the scene supported by video footages, the turnout was pathetically dismal; only a few dozen supporters believed to belong to the ministers’ camp turned up. Even those who bothered to show up in favor of the secessionists’ fake demonstrations were outnumbered by Awdalstate loyalists, who were clearly spotted waving the blue and white flag of Awdalstate in the streets of Borama city.

    In spite of using kickbacks in the form of bribery money, the secessionist government has spectacularly failed to garner any meaningful support for their fake public outings from the citizenry of SSC and Awdalstate. Nevertheless, there were orchestrated turnouts in support of Ahmed Silanyo’s government in Hargeisa, Burco and Berbera, but there were no elements of surprises in this endeavor as these cities are already known to form the backbone of the separatists. In democracy, public demonstrations are hardly orchestrated by governments; they are spontaneous.

    Ahmed Silanyo’sphantom government can no longer ignore the will of the people in Las Anod, Buholdle, Erigavo, Borama, Dilla, Lugahaye and elsewhere in northern Somalia. No amount of bribery or intimidation in the form of massing armed clan militia in the cities and towns will bring back people of Awdal and SSC to the secession camp. In the past few weeks, Borama city was teeming with SNM clan militia marauding in the streets and dispersing crowds. No amount of press gagging and arbitrary incarceration of journalists will conceal the culpability of Silanyo’s reign of terror and the atrocities committed by his clan militia against innocent civilians in SSC and Awdal. Borama News Network office in Borama was raided two days ago by separatists’ militia and two journalists were taken away. Cabdicasiis Cabdillaahi is still in jail for the second day running.

    Without any shadow of a doubt the tide is turning against the head of the secessionist camp and, no matter how hard he and his entourage try to convince people that “Somaliland” is for all, there will be no change of heart and no turning back the clock for the people of aforementioned cities and towns. They have had enough of secession; of alienation and separatism; of misrule and intimidation; of lies and innuendo, and more importantly, they have had enough of living under the whim and brutality of one-clan state, particularly a clan state that has no name and place in the international community. Somaliland’s main claim for being a separate and legal state hinges entirely and exclusively on the concocted so-called Burco convention in 1991, where a number of hand-picked elders from several parts of northern regions of Somalia were asked to toe the line and accept the SNM dictate or face the consequences of their actions by a well-armed clan militia. Such gun-ho policies, intimidation and arm-twisting tactics have no place in the international community. Youcannot create a whole new country on this simplistic and flimsy basis. Ahmed Silanyo’s clan militia has taken a significant part of the destruction of the last Somali government on the false pretense that their clan members were deliberately singled out and murdered en masses, a claim many historians dispute. Unfortunately people die in civil wars and that was the case in northern Somalia. More people have perished in south and central Somalia. The crying shame, however, is that the separatists want to hang up to a doomed state whose time is over; a state that the international community has shunned ages ago and large part of its perceived territory is slipping away from its fingers. The nightmare scenario dreaded by separatists has begun with the declaration of Awdalstate and the ultimate creation of Khaatumo state of Somalia. More importantly, Somalia is on the mend while the secessionists are on the wane. It is all over for separatists. However, it is not too late to change policy. Somalis are prepared to welcome back their long lost child.

    Yabarag

    1. theissue is not somaliland let the meeting concentrate in Somalia, therefore somaliland is one tribe call isaq can one tribe be a country? Bring all warlords, who destroy Somali Democratic Republic masaccred millions of civilians infront of the International Justice, including the leader of SNM his name is slinyo is killing children ,mothers,students i think the only way somalia can come togother is to divide in to state like puntland,galmudug,khatumostate of somalia,snmstate,awdal state and much more i hope All Somali’s should be gratefully to the effort of UK in order to stabilise their country

  195. it seems that the roadmap is not moving forward and the somali ppl and international community dont want to see another TFG after the current TFG time runs out,london coference should support formation of national salvation government with not morthen 12 ministers and the role of first minister and prisedent compined,about brothers from somaliland who keep saying we not part of somalia,iam from the south and my clan got no single minister in the TFG while Issaaq Aka Somaliland got 4 ministers and morthen 10 other government officials in Mogadisho.do you call hargaisa and barbara A country,do you know ther is Awdal state of somalia and khatumo state who is unionist and dont want to be a part what is called issaaq land or clan based somaliland,you guys should claim the rest of somalia and be example,you can rule the whol nation not two small cities hargaisa and barbara.

  196. Txs matt, the idea of creating forum is most welcome since our community like depating on political issues. Moreover, i can admit that the Road map isn’t known by most of the somali people, neither does anybody including the parliament have detailed information what secrecy the roadmap withholds thats why their is difference between our law maker as this may hinder the peace process and may create difference. Before the U.K meeting on 23rd take the roadmap to the parliament to rub the differences between the two ironic parliament heads. Txs

  197. Dear Matt, many thanks for initiating this – this in itself is participatory! However, I hope the comments made here by Soamlis and friends of Somalia are taken into account during the Conference in London.

    In my humble opinion, any future political discourse in Somalia must take into consideration the reality on the ground – Somalia is not what it used to be! The dynamics on the ground has changed and especially people in Somalia need to acknowledge this. Looking at experiences elsewhere and on the ground in Somalia, the best way forward is to accept a federalism. In Kenya, like in many other parts of the world, power structures are being devolved to the Counties (remember there was call for Federalism but countries became a compromise). Let’s not deny that federalism is a reality in Somalia and it is the only formula that can discourage future ethnic conflict.

    As for the political system, I think Somalia can best be served by a bi-cameral parliament that is composed of formal and informal institutions such as is the case in Somaliland. Inclusiveness is the key here and it is important that traditional/customary structure are incorporated in any future political dispensation (they are best at dealing with local issues around resource use etc).

    There is nothing wrong with the country having an Executive president, but the constitution must promote separation of powers. We need to learn from Kenya where the new constitution is putting the country on the right track by promoting good governance and accountability.

    In the interim though, the international community should support Somalia to deal with pertinent issues around Housing, Land and Property issues and property restitution. This will entail in constituting Somalia experts and experts from other countries that have undergone conflict and where property issues are central to the conflict.

    This, as I said at the start, is my humble opinion and I apologise if I have offended anyone in any way!

  198. Dear Sirs,

    Somalis all across the world have been waiting in vain for peace.

    David Cameron announced the Somali Conference last year at Lord Mayor’s banquet.

    There has been a strong lobby from the Insurance industry regarding the issue of Piracy.

    I am sensing from a lot of Somalis that this meeting is a kind of a ‘Paris Peace Conference.’

    I hope I am wrong but I am under the impression that the real driving force is those who have interest in the issue of Piracy.

    What I would like to know is whether there are measures in place to reduce the risk of over hyping this conference i.e. making promises which cannot be delivered.

    It is clear that different camps in the Somali conflict have taken different viewpoint on the purpose of the conference.

    I think some effort/awareness campaign should be made to the Somali public to dispell some genuine concerns.

  199. Matt, believe me, the Somalia people is culturally obedient and very enthusiastic to their leaders if they see them qualified leaders, who are honest, educated, hard-working and free from personal and clannish interests. there exist a good number of such persons, but there are not in position to come to the power and lead the country.

    do you have any means to identify such people and support them to have a chance to bring about the change required? if yes, just let us work to realize it. This is the only comprehensive approach to solve all the political and security concerns in Somalia. If you succeed to consolidate all the funds required for Somalia and put the best initiatives in place to support Somalia, the ultimate factor you need to realize your dream is ”Capable Somalia Leaders”. Somalia does not lack international support, but it lacks the proper service of its own leaders.

    Based on the reality on ground, the clan loyalty is significantly diminishing in Somalia and the Somali community at large is now ready for peace, unity and development. Let me outline some recommendations:

    1. Review and amend the current road map to be inclusive and reflect all the important political and security processes.

    2. Increase the stakeholders of the road map and give the civil society a significant role to play.

    2. Secure all the funds required for the road map implementation

    3. Unite all the international efforts towards Somalia under operational, temporary, single Office/committee from all international stakeholders/interesting entities. this office should practically operate in Somalia and directly exercise its tasks in support of the TFG. Alternatively, International community can choose one strong government involved in Somalia such as Turkey to do this job on behalf of and support of the international community.

    4. Channel all the international efforts including financial support through that office/committee with clear and tangible transparent and accountability measures in place.

    5. Ensure that every single step on the road map to take place on its scheduled time and that each action is implemented as planned of which the most important are the process of selection of qualified new parliamentarians and its speaker, election of the president and so on. Note that corrupt preparatory campaign is now going on in Mogadishu to undermine the right process of the Parliament selection.

    6. Carefully plan and deploy more powerful International peace enforcement forces under the auspices of UN and integrate AMISOM with these forces under one name to bring real support to security sector and speed up to defeat the extremist elements and piracy in a short time while, in the process, training and empowering Somalis own armed forces to be self-reliant in the future.

    7. Establish and adapt acts against any one undermines this process. The International Criminal Court should be given a chance to really operate in Somalia to exercise this job. Feeling impunity is the biggest reason why some Somali individuals or groups always undermine peace processes and political systems in Somalia.

    8. At this stage, persuade Somaliland to stop seeking independence and accept to re-unite with other parts of Somalia in the future may be after 4 years when the South recovered from the conflict and stands on its own foot the same level as Somaliland or better. But now, the two parts are not at the same level to work together.

    Thanks

  200. I think majority of us believe the London conference will be mainly discussed how Somalia is going to be reconciling again or may be, we are thinking this conference is all about how north and south of Somalia to be unified again. Because some of comments in this blog are repeatedly talking this conference will focus only building of new Somali government from the outside or the world is going to persuade Somaliland to abandon its ambition to become an independent nation from Somalia, in fact all non of this issue will be discussed the upcoming conference in London. But rather we are forgetting how many times Somalia have had international reconciliation conference. Do we have any fruition about all those past conference? I think international community has no interest any more to fund Somali reconciliation meeting outside from their country because previous meeting has failed to produce concrete agreement, but rather the world are staging now to focus their own security and thinking how could they find less cost about stabilization in Somalia particularly south of Somalia . Due that security issue, London conference will not be discussed on that agenda. However this conference will focus only how the world find a way to establish stable and functional government in Somalia which can maintain its own security without foreign intervention or not putting the cost rising international peacekeeping soldiers in Somali soil, however in order to establish sustainable peace and security in Somalia, contraries which their own security interest is disrupting the lawlessness of Somalia or other stakeholders which has an important matters about their own security in this volatile region which against or being sabotaged by uninstable situation in Somali are going to discuss how can be created a local and strong Somali security forces which capable to fight its own lawlessness, such as fighting corruptions which paralyzed the progress of country’s, development, and to stop the continuation of abducting the foreign humanitarian assistance staffs in Somalia and to fight as well on ongoing piracy business which has been threatened nowadays the moving of global merchandise through the busy shipping channel on Somali coastline, this conference will also be emphasized how developed nations can contribute some ongoing financial assistance when these Somali security forces are being established . World or NATO war vessels has exhausted keeping Somali coastline a save passage from piracy, on that result no improving has yet to come at daily protection task and continue escorting the commercial ships from large area on Somali sea water, despite that effort, Somali pirates still continue to strike under the heavily presence of NATO war vessels and they have failed on several occasions to stop those unwavering Somali pirates. However upcoming conference in London will not be discussed any issue related about Somali road maps and how could they share power of future Somali government. Because the Somali road maps has been discussed already and its final agreement has signed at Garowe “in Puntland state’ also neither about this conference will be discussed how the world are interesing to bring in negotiation table between south and north to discuss about the future of their reunification issue, however Somaliland was extended an invitation to participate this crucial conference as a self anatomy state but not an independent state from Somalia and the reason that it have been called in this conference is to take a lion share about re-stabilization of Somalia in term of piracy and other security issue. However, in my point view, I believe this conference will be mainly discussed about security issue in Somalia and it will not be discussed how the world put together Somalis to reconcile their own problem because world had an experience such meeting previous and they had given a numerous time to resolve their problems with or without arbitration but as the result, nothing has come their discussion to produce concrete agreement however, we have to remember London conference will nothing to do the establishing of new Somali government or about talking unification issue between south and north, but we must know this conference is all about how to keep in bay Somali problem from the world and to defeat for those who threatening an ailing global economy for further damage..

  201. What do you think of progress on the Roadmap?

    • The roadmap is not inclusive in regarding barring the Somali intellectuals who are not tainted as well as the voiceless grassroots community to participate. The constitution does not assure or based on fair power distribution, dispersal of justice, transparency in Government dealings.

    • The Roadmap is under the illusion in lumping all Somalia together without considering how to negotiate Somaliland to be part of the process or break away.

    • The Roadmap looks like another transitional system which does not dealing with how the future Somalia would look like without laying the foundation broad system to accommodate any problems that might arise and tackling corruption, abuse of power, totalitarianism and breaching the rules and regulations as it has been common for the last two decades.

    • The Roadmap is engineered in such a way in favouring of certain individuals already in power to lead and play greater role in the upcoming election when the TFGs mandate expires in Aug. 2012. It seems that some international actors in sight of their partial Somalia and tainted Somali politicians without vision to lead the next government to prolong the suffering and hardship of Somalis, whatever the reason.

    • The Roadmap does not guarantee the rights of the minority in the power sharing and how the representatives divided as big clans could take most of them if not all as it happened before.

    • The Roadmap does not illustrate the future system of unity Somali government as it has not been bothered whether to based on autonomous regions, federal with the two Somali regions united in 1960 with central government or powerful governors responsible for running the regions appointed by central government.

    What should follow the Transition?
    We need to see inclusive strong elected government based on just with every clan in Somalia represented with clear direction and constitution led by visionary Somali leaders in the auspices of the international community.

    Who should have a say and why?

    Any politicians who govern parts of Somali with tangible result in that area in the right direction, Civil Society and the international community because there are so many wheelchair advisors and cyberspace existed states in Somalia and politicians of whom the international community have been listening to preside so may failed conferences.

  202. Mr. Baugh: I hope I am mistaken to assume that your office is cherry-picking the comments being made. Are you selecting comments that are consistent with your preconceived outcomes of the London Somalia Conference? I strongly believe that Somaliland issues should be reflected in the conference agenda!
    What do you mean by: “Your comment is awaiting moderation?”

    1. No, as I say in my blog, all comments are approved by a moderator so as to avoid any threatening or highly offensive messages being posted, which means there is a small time lag between you writing your comment and seeing it here. But so far I am glad to say that we have had very few comments which we have had to remove because of unacceptable language. No comments have been left out for any other reason – and I believe you will see for yourself that a lot of very strongly held views have been posted here and on my previous blogs, on various sides of the arguments, demonstrating that we are not censoring anybody’s views, including yours. It is important that all reasonable voices are heard. Thank you for your comment.

  203. Dear Sir,

    I know you are only 37, however even the most basic history lecture should warn you that no conference held in ‘London’ will secure peace in Somalia.

    Any attempt to reconcile people must be bottom up approach. i.e. hold the conference in SOMALIA.

    I really fear what David Cameron has done at the behest of anti piracy campaigners will most certainly lead to further unrest in Somalia.

    It really pains me that in 2012 the British government hopes to bring peace in a land far far away.

    I beg you Sir to tread carefully and to avoid your actions leading to or indirectly contributing to further bloodshed.

    I will do my upmost to get involved in this, as a Londoner who has been a refugee for 20 years, I know only too well English hypocracy.

    I hope individuals will have some way of voicing oppinion.

    Regards

    1. I do not know why I feel the same with Adam.
      well done Adam.
      Please add my name to all your comments.
      We have something in common!.
      thanks Adam

      1. I am glad you agree. I really do beleive David Cameron has not got a clue about what he has got himself into. This is not for Britain, instead it is for the EU. AU. & UN.

        I will not be suprised if the conference is cancelled. Somali folk deed to resolve issues at hoe and talk to one onother face to face even if it is a case of ‘last man standing’.

  204. There are Somalilanders who would like unification with Somalia, but the clamour for an independent Somaliland is such that those voices fear being too public. Somaliland is operating de facto independently and that is contrary to the Djibouti Peace Process plan which the British government supports. Given this truth on the ground then a very loose confederation seems the only viable way forward, it almost exists given the Somali ethnic unity. This Federation needs must be an ambiguous one that appears as “almost-independence” to Somaliland and “federation” to Somalia. Given time trade agreements can pave the way to closer co-operation, but probably not government led, but commerce led. But it’s tricky. Oh and where’s my invitation to the conference?

  205. I believe the London Conference evidently addresses merely to tackle the protracted predicament of Somalia that the international community attempted to resolve more than 14 attempts and failed miserably. I don’t see a reason why should Somaliland be involved with the conflict that she was and is not part of it. This London Conference is a rouse to destabilize the Somaliland status as a peaceful country in the midst of chaotic Somalia. It’s a concerted attempt by Britain with UN and the TFG to make Somaliland to pay the price once again for the failures of Southern Somalia successive transitional governments; rather than supporting Somaliland’s, peace, stability, democratization and self-determination. Its abundantly clear that this soc called London Conference is undermining what the people of Somaliland had created for 21 years without any tangible assistance from external forces. Dragging back Somaliland to the failed union with Somalia will unquestionably bring back a horrific civil war between Somaliland and Somalia that will destabil1ze the whole region. And any attempt by any anyone or entity will be vigorously revolted by the people of Somaliland who are ready to defend their hard fought independence that billions of dollars was sacrificed and hundreds of thousands Somalilanders paid the ultimate price to achieve.

    1. The participation of Somaliland is important partly because of the renewed war in northern Somalia and partly because of the need to make the roadmap a politically inclusive mechanism. Britain can use its leverage to diffuse the clan war around Buhoodle town.

      1. I am from Buhodle region, I do prefer to have Somaliland security forces which guarantee for me security, democracy, and take part civil society engagement for examle political process rather than TFG forces (AMISOM). Because I know SSC where based in tribilism and Khatumo based in clans.

        For time being we do not want any more failure state like South of Somalia.

        1. First of all you don’t represent SSC or Buhodle and i know the fact you are not from that region. The SSC or Dhulbahante tribe has build new state called Khaatumo State of Somali is actually meant to preserve Somali Unity and not to weaken it as feared by some. It is also meant to eliminate the conflict that has raged between the two neighbouring States of Somaliland and Puntland over the regions that have now adopted the Khaatumo brand. These regions had been unfairly labelled as disputed territories by the UN and other International Aid groups and were therefore denied any development aid for the last 20 years. As a result of such wanton neglect, these regions lag behind all Somali territories in terms of social and economic development. On my recent trip to Taleh to attend the Khaatumo congress, I was shocked to see the gaping disparity between these regions and those in Puntland and Somaliland. To illustrate this point further, Yagoori, a village where I spent my formative years and remember as a vibrant and growing place, showed signs of economic stagnation and social decline. I could not help but Compare yagoori to Oog, another village along the same highway from Burao to Las Anod as Yagoori, but established much later than yagoori. Oog is a growing town with signs of progress compared to yagoori. People in Yagoori live on salaries paid by the Somaliland administration to phantom soldiers. Powerful warlords get paid 3 times the number of actual soldiers they have under their command. The money does trickle down in the form of Kat purchases, a powerful drug that prevents people from thinking or doing any form of productive work. This can be compared to the free liquor supplied to indigenous people by the white settlers in the Untied States and Australia. The tactic is meant to buy the loyalty of the local population who do not subscribe to the secession agenda being pushed by the Somaliland administration. Were these salaries to evaporate, so would the Somaliland clan militia based at strategic locations along the highway from Burao to Las Anod. Somaliland believes that the control of the highway could determine the fate of Somaliland and its dream of becoming an independent country.

          The lack of actual loyalty to the Somaliland cause in the Khaatumo regions can be graphically illustrated by the failed attempt to apprehend the author and a member of the G62, the group that is behind the Khaatumo concept, on our way back from Taleh. The whole village of Yagoori where we stopped for the night stood up to the heavily armed militia deployed by the Somaliland administration from Las Anod to apprehend us and ship us to the infamous Mandhera prison. To preserver life and to avoid punitive retaliatory action by the Somaliland militia against the village, we decided to leave Yagoori on foot to areas outside the control of the militia, and we were eventually whisked to Galkayo in Puntland where we were welcomed with open arms. We traveled through hundreds of miles of unpaved roads and our 4X4 driver could only be compared to the best world class rally drivers for his dexterity at the wheel.
          Unfortunately a few other delegates were not as lucky and got arrested in Berbera on their way back to their adopted countries. One of these delegates is a British citizen who entered Somalia with his British passport. His only crime was to attend the Khaatumo Congress. The British Government that provides generous aid to the Somaliland enclave needs to take note of the way its citizens are being harassed and jailed without due process.
          As if the harassment of the Khaatumo delegates were not enough, the Somaliland Administration mobilized its meager resources to invade Buhodle, another Khaatumo city near the border with Ethiopia. The main tactic behind the attack was to force the Buhodle delegates at the Khaatumo Congress to abandon the Congress. Such tactic failed since there were more than enough men and women on hand to stand up to the aggression of the Somaliland militia. After the Yagoori incident in which the S/L administration failed miserably to apprehend us, we went to Galkayo, a major town in Puntland to catch a flight from there. While in Galkayo, we managed to visit the wounded that were brought from Buholde for treatment. They were all innocent civilians who were caught in the crossfire between the defenders of the city and the invading Somaliland militia. With rudimentary medical facilities, most of the wounded could have been treated in Buhodle instead of being ferried across hundreds of unpaved roads to Galkayo. This fact again illustrates the neglect and abandonment of all the Khaatumo villages and towns: more than sufficient reason to establish the Khaatumo State of Somalia which is expected to cater to the basic needs of its residents.
          The Khaatumo State is a Federal State that strongly believes in the Unity and Integrity of the Somali Republic. It is the product of a democratic forum where all the stakeholders of the Khaatumo regions assembled under the now famous Khaatumo tree (Berdaha Khaatumo), debated, and voted for the creation of a State that caters for their development needs. 345 delegates representing all the sub-clans of the Khaatumo regions unanimously voted for the autonomous state. The vote was resoundingly ratified by all the traditional leaders who have been refugees for 4 years in Puntland after the capital of their State was illegally invaded and occupied by the clan-based militia in Somaliland.

          Khaatumo Congress in session
          Both Somaliland and Puntland have no choice but to welcome the new State as an equal partner in the long road towards rebuilding the Somali state. Instead of wasting another 20 years chasing an unrealistic dream of dividing the Somali people, Somaliland has to prove to the world that its democratic claims are for real. Democracies do not use violence against unarmed civilians. Democracies do not arrest innocent civilians for expressing their opinions. Democracies do not arrest citizens of foreign countries for attending Congresses in territories outside their controls. Democracies do not use bullets to suppress peaceful demonstrations such as the one in Las Anod where young men and women were killed in cold blood for no other reason than supporting the Khaatumo declarations. It is unfortunate that an Administration that tries so hard to build a façade of democracy, stability and good governance should favor violence over dialogue to resolve its differences with the Khaatumo delegates and architects.
          The language of clan hatred pouring from Hargeisa can only plunge the whole region into unpredictable consequences. Somalis can ill afford another protracted civil war in an area that has so far escaped the carnage in the South of the country. The recent statements of the oldest statesman in Hargeisa, Haji Abdi Warabe, should alarm all Somalis. He recently called for genocide and the ethnic cleansing of those opposed to the Somaliland secession. “Dhulku ma guure, dadkaa guura” is a Somali statement that calls for the forced evacuation of hundreds of thousands of Khaatumo residents from their land.
          The men and women chosen to lead the Khaatumo State are ready for cooperation and peaceful dialogue. They are also ready to defend their regions and residents against any aggression. Self defense is a God given right and is a Universal value. Somaliland has no legal claim over the Khaatumo State. Old colonial borders that disappeared 52 years ago are no justification for coercing others to adopt a wrong cause. While dividing the Somali people is morally wrong and reprehensible, it is a well documented fact that the Khaatumo clans never signed any protection agreements with the British and are therefore outside the colonial borders used by Somaliland to justify its secession.
          Let us hope that reason will prevail over the language of hate. At the same time, the world community needs to closely watch and monitor the area if it is to avoid another Rwanda.

  206. Forgive me for being a pessimist, but I believe that no roadmap can succeed as long as we are probing up despots and warlords to somehow resuscitate a coma induced patient. It has not worked before and there is no reason why it should now. This conference is a window dressing than anything else, but thanks for the effort.

  207. The people of Somaliland feel that the UK government is arm-twisting and pressurizing the Somaliland government to attend the London Conference. A conference, they believe, whose main objective is to resurrect the now defunct Somali Republic. To the people of Somaliland, and rightly so, this means dragging them back into that dubious “union” which they bitterly regret to have taken place in the first place.

    The British Government is making a grave mistake in coercing the Somaliland government into compliance. perhaps, the British Government does fully appreciate that Somalilanders would rather go to hell than go back to that legally dubious “Union”. In other words, the International Community is going to face about 3.5 million Somaliland “Alshababis” next to the Red Sea if the British Government does not change its current policy towards Somaliland.

  208. Thank you Matt and UK in Somaila mission.
    The political formation of future Somalia is the greatest task ahead. Most of the Somali people in and outside of Somalia want to see a corrupt free leaders. Leaders that are transparent and put the people first not the power. This is the only way Somalia can forget the past and the most younger generations of Somalis today dying at the seas can accept and stay at home peacefully.
    Such leardes should not include the TFG or hangemen of either Ethiopia or Kenya. The future Somali leaders should come out from the people and must have ideal of nation building not personal gains or being part of the self named front runners.
    We have to see that more Somali women in any future government capinet and not names affiliated with the past failed governments in Somalia from 1990 to 2012.
    Thank you all.

  209. The most important issue is to make sure that ,the constitution-making is completed and should be made in a perfect manner involving all stake-holders. the selection of the New Mps should not be Hand-picked individuals.(far from any political groupings or loyalities) if the crisis witnessed last couple of years, should be something of the past. The somali people should be given the powers to decide for their destiny ( holding free and fair elections through the balot-box) And the international community should target nothing less than that, if the entire world is for a stable somalia in the future. I wish you all for a better out-come.

  210. I sincerely believe that including Somaliland in the London Somali conference is a waste of your precious time and energy. The primary objective of this conference is to find a political solution in Somalia, not Somaliland.

    Somaliland has not been a participant in the Djibouti Peace Process that resulted in the dysfunctional Transitional Federal Institutions (TFIs). Somaliland was not a signatory to the Roadmap developed to bring an end to the transitional failed TFIS that must end in August 2012. Furthermore, Somaliland has not been part of the Garowe Principles, to hold a Constituent Assembly.

    Even the agenda for the London Somalia Conference does not provide a platform or an agenda item for Somaliland to present its case.

    Would not be wise for Britain, USA, France, Ethiopia, etc, to leave Somaliland out of this conference? This conference is primarily for the international communities to assist Somalia in establishing a peaceful and democratic country just like that of Somaliland.

    As they say, do not fix it if aint broke! Leave Somaliland Republic out of this conference. Somaliland met all the conditions for nationhood; support it and do not destroy by including it in a failed Somalia. I thought as the former colonial power -of British Somaliland – Britain would be proud of and advocate for Somaliland’s democracy and peace. Why are the Britain, USA and others forcing Somaliland to be a part of Somalia that defied logic of the world community?

    1. There is no country called somaliland in Somalia.
      After 20 years of false dreams it is the time to give up.

        1. somalia is like one family and will always be one, the so colled somaliland is and litterly means somali which is the people and land which is the land. so don’t think one clan or one man can change somalia or can cut up somali in to pieces. somalia will be one now and forever.

          1. Somaliland is what it is today because of its people sacrifice and hard work. So I suggest to my southern brothers and sisters to forget about Somaliland and focus their energy in fixing their own issues. Of course that is if they are sincere about improving the situation in the south. Please don’t let your jealousy of Somaliland success make you lose focus and always remember that innocent kids, women… in the south are dying because of starvation and war. Stay focus and get your act together. I’m sure that Somaliland will be willing to help if it sees sincere effort from the south and not just nonsense talk about Somaliland this and Somaliland that.

  211. A little progress was so far made on the ‘’Road Map’’. You can see a good number of activities on the road map that have not been done and whiles its scheduled time has already passed such fighting against corruption, which really undermines the whole progress of the TFG. The road map is short and very narrow and a lot of more activities should be reflected in it such as humanitarian aid in Somalia.

    The transitional period should end in August as scheduled in the road map. What will follow should be a broad-based, inclusive, democratic national government. To do so, the most important issues for the international community to ensure are two: proper process to end the transition and quality government after the transition. I hereby want to extremely emphasize that the most important action required in Somalia is to have ‘’qualified leaders’’ in place to lead the country out of chronic conflict. Such leaders would secure the interest of both the Somalia People and the international community –including UK- in Somalia. This is evidenced by the successful operations and great achievements done in short time by the previous government that was terminated on 9th June 2011 after Kampala Accord and its associated Political Compromise between the president and the speaker of parliament.

    I am sure that Somalia has its own current and potential brave armed forces that can defeat the terrorist and piracy within short time, has useful operating/potential economic resources and educated and qualified Somalia citizens, but what is required is capable politicians to coordinate all these resources at politically acceptable standard and lead the country to the desired objectives.

    If you seriously investigate Somalis root causes of conflict and the best way to address them, you, undoubtedly come to this conclusion: They need honest, educated, hardworking, and experienced leaders or, in short words, qualified leaders.
    On the bases of this important principle, UK conference should seriously focus on ‘’political process’’ point and solve it on two sides: proper process to end the transition through amended & expanded current road map and quality government afterwards (good parliamentarians, qualified president, capable prime minster and so on). Then all other points/agendas will subsequently be successful.

    People or entities that would have a say in this conference include: TFG, Somaliland, Puntland, Ahlusunna Wal Jamaa (ASWJ), Civil Society organizations, recognized independent Somali experts/politicians, UN, AU, IGAD, AL, OIC, donor governments, and other entities. Please ensure to invite the right persons from each of the above-mentioned entities. Thanks

  212. I think what you are doing is such a great thing. I think Somalia should be looked at as one nation not two nations and also I hope this conference gives hope to somlians especially to the people in Somalia. It’s about time somalia got it’s act together and as a somali person I don’t see a future for Somalia because it’s has been 23 years since somalia has been in war. That’s why i say there is no hope for Somalia, there has been so many meetings and confrences but no outcome. And I hope from the bottom of my heart I hope this conference brings good outcomes for the future of somalia. I also think this should be a way of building a trust with the western world with somlian people. Best of luck. Is there anyway that this conference could be opened to the public?

    1. All Somali’s should be gratefully to the effort of UK in order to stabilise their country, but I would to emphasis only one thing ‘Any attempt to re-join Somaliland with Somalia will take us back to the first quarter, I mean to 1980’s and there will be a massive bloodshed’

    2. It is my humble opinion to state that the London Conference on Somalia will not bring any fundamental change on the political conundrum that Somalis face today. It may be successful in raising awareness of piracy dilemma to the public, which is in my understanding the main purpose. The core of such an international gathering has nothing to do with the chief Somalia problem- civil war.

      Equally, one has to be realistic about having high hopes in relation to the forthcoming conference. Somali problem can only be dealt with and effectively solved by the Somalis themselves. It is important to highlight that the Somalia issue must be addressed looking inwards rather than outwards. The outsiders or “world community” (a cliché normally used by the victors) will always be eager to help but it will never ever hit hard on the core of problem if Somalis do not identify and tackle head-on their differences beforehand.

      Despite some differences to Somalia, we also had a civil war in Angola. It took us 27 years (1975 – 2002) before we realized that the problem was ours and only ours. There were countless international meetings (interference if you prefer to call them this way), agreements, deals and so many double standards in the process- many of which played a pivotal role to our suffering while others were genuine in their nature. It is always easier to identify your enemy but it’s much harder to identify your true friends, we found that out the hard way.

      A logical and lasting peace is one that the actors find their own way to solve, be it by war or peaceful means. Somalis must seat in their own home not in London to solve their own problems. The London Conference is corrupted from the start; it doesn’t represent what one would call Somalia in its true formation. There are so many gaps in terms of representation to the meeting. Some important players will be left out others will be called to represent a cause they cannot identify themselves with.

      If Somalis wants a true lasting peace they need to organise a Somali conference in Somalia or somewhere in Africa, potentially at the African Union. A conference that brings together all relevant players to the Somalis plight, irrespectively of their rights or wrongs- it can and will only happen once Somalis are ready for peace. The Somalis will ever be ready for peace only when there will be a tragic victor and a humble defeated among those forces currently involved in the civil war. In short, the war in Somalia can only end with war. Indeed, there seems to be a sort of “moral understanding” among some countries in the West that ‘making war to finish the war’ is the only viable solution for Somalis- the unilateral support (financial and others) that is currently being placed at disposal of one selected dubious party of the war suggests that my suspicious might be right. Some African countries have also subscribed themselves to the West’s policy towards Somalia thus dangerously internationalizing the Somali conflict.

      I do not believe that a civil war is best left to the outsiders to deal with. They can help but only if the actors of that war help themselves first. The saying ’dirt cloths should be washed at home’ does apply here- isn’t just a principle with moral connotation it has also its own practical dilemma.
      Lastly, Kenya’s finger on bringing to live the London’s Conference on Somalia is conspicuously seen but its real motive is dubious. One may venture to speculate that Kenya government will be using the mentioned conference to ask for military support to fight the group Al-Shabaab. I have no doubt that the months preceding the conference we’ll see a massive military intervention of Kenya in Somalia. We may also witness the former being trapped in there for a long haul. One Kenya is in, which country will follow next?

  213. I think, Somaliland and puntland must work together and risk the somalis, Somaliland must change its position and the world/ other somalis should gar guarantee for it, that it will never happen again, what happened to it in 1988. And from now and on, the system governed in Hartgeisa can be smart transformation for the region. I think somaliland government is more liberal than the last one of Riyale.

    1. the SSC conference at Taleex has finally unanimously proclaimed on Thursday 12 January the establishment of the Darwiiland State of Somalia for their SSC regions (Sool, Sanaag and Cayn) that would come directly under the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia(TFG). This was an unprecedented proclamation, representing the first time in the political history of the SSC people when all the delegates, chiefs and traditional leaders, as representatives of the SSC people, have signed up to a declaration without a single dissent. As the voice of the SSC, it could not have a higher legitimacy withinSomaliaand the international community.

      This was the SSC’s finest hour. Apart from the birth of a united independentSomaliain June/July 1960, no other event has engendered so much joyous celebrations among the SSC people at home and abroad as the proclamation of theDarwishStateofSomaliaat Taleex. Now that the SSC voice has been heard loud and clear, that puts to rest any bogus claim by any other administration that they speak for the SSC let alone claim to “own” them.

      No more place for malicious references to the SSC as “disputed” regions- contrived shenanigans meant to give implicit support to Somaliland’s preposterous claim that these areas were bequeathed to them by the former British colonial power. No more red-herrings that the SSC people are divided between neighbouring Puntland and Somaliland. No more need for any self-respecting SSC personality, Xabsaade, Abdisamad et al, to continue giving allegiance to any other State in Somalia other than to Somalia first, and secondly to their own Darwish State.

      The comeback of a free SSC people means much more than the exercise of their inalienable right to rid themselves ofSomaliland’s occupation and have their ownRegionalState. More importantly, it also means the revival of Somalia’s unity and a wake-up call to other regions in Somalia that they stand to gain strength, nationhood, and progress through unity, but would otherwise remain through division weak and easy prey for all ill-intentioned predators. Happily, Somali nationalism is still alive judging by the support and good wishes the Taleex conference and its proclamation are receiving from Somalis from all corners of the world.

      Sadly, the only discordant voice is coming from the one-clan secessionist enclave calling itselfSomaliland. Still blindly beholden to their ingrained delusion that all the northern regions ofSomalia(formerBritish Somaliland) are their God-given patrimony, they see their claim to the SSC as incontestable, something everybody else in the international community sees as bogus. Clearly, the Taleex proclamation has come a bombshell to them. As former foreign minister of Somalia, Ismail Mohamoud Hurreh alias Bubaa (who hails from the area), counselled them the other day, this is the time for cool heads to prevail, the moment to come to terms with the realities and the inevitable demise of Somaliland, and a propitious occasion to rejoin their fellow Somalis in Somalia. But reason and cool heads are in short supply in the enclave. A war on SSC people to bring them to their heels is now the clarion call in the enclave.

      When the cheerleaders for the battle cry against the SSC proclamation are senior government ministers, religious bigwigs, and the top traditional leader, the very people who were supposed to serve as role models for peace and Somali brotherhood, it is not surprising that the toxic hysteria gripping their masses is the kind that has led to massacres (and even genocide) elsewhere in our East African region. Even after allowing for their usual chauvinistic bravado to let off steam, yet one has to worry when their most senior citizen and parliamentarian, Haji Abdelarii Hussein, better knows as Abdi the Hyema, calls for the displacement or the ethnic- cleansing of the SSC people unless they toe their line; or when their leading traditional leader demands mass mobilisation of their clan and the arming of every child “who can reach the udder of a camel”. This is an invitation to their excited masses to take matters into their own hands and attack the SSC people living amongst them and those in the SSC regions proper.

      It is easier to work the masses up but more difficult to control them once matters get out of hand. The possible consequences are too horrible to contemplate and their leaders should know better. Make no mistake: These leaders are playing with fire and they should know the ramifications of their ill-considered actions: for a start, a war on the SSC people could easily escalate into a war between Isaak and the Darood clans in the Horn. Not only are they not going to win such a destructive clan war, but the financial and human cost would be incalculable. Above all, such a war will destroy for ever the historical bonds between the brotherly peoples in the region and the emerging divide between them and SSC people would be unbridgeable.

      More importantly from their perspective, they would also lose the sympathy and support of the international community which hitherto had rewarded them handsomely for their much hyped good governance. Last but not least,Somalilandleaders should be under no illusion that the newDarwishStatewould hold them responsible under the International Criminal Court (ICC) for any crimes committed against the SSC people in exercising their inalienable right to have their regional state and to remain part ofSomalia. The indictment by the ICC of those inKenyaandSudanfor their crimes against their peoples should serve as a salutary lesson that no one in the secessionist enclave who committed crimes against civilians in the SSC, Awdal or anywhere else can remain beyond the reach of international justice.

      For their part, the people of the newSSCStateofSomalia, or theDarwiishStateofSomalia- which ever name is given to it – will go out of their way to extend their hand of friendship and brotherly coexistence to their brothers in the secessionist enclave. For the sake of peace and stability in Somalia and the wider Horn, the international community should for their part put all necessary pressure on the secessionist enclave to refrain from attacking or destabilising the new SSC State, and to make it clear to them that no recognition can be granted to one-clan enclave. The choice between remaining stuck in a barren one- clan enclave for chauvinistic considerations and playing their full and pivotal role in the newSomaliais clear to most people. Hopefully, it will also dawn on them at last.

  214. I agree with @rooble some of my folk in the south and I love them dearly are obsessed with somaliland and it’s progress or lack of. The outside world needs to support the TFG in its struggle with militancy and stay committed for as long as it takes, what must stressed to the tfg is the need to focus on its core problems and not deviate from it by engaging in tribal rhetoric or pastime squabble they owe to the new generation this is their mess and they need to clean it up.
    The question of somaliland and unification of Somalia is pointless because ppl are dying by the thousands. Somaliland is a fact no matter who says others, you can’t change the facts on the ground by rhetoric that would push somaliland to take up a harder and harder position.

    1. If you ask about LDS, It’s another The Rumble in the Jungle – round 21, Somalis have been fighting for 21 years, We had the Dictator, the Clan wars, the Warlords The Islamic Union, Al Shabaab, – What is Next? This conference will tells the new chapter of Somali History.

  215. A bottom-up approach is what is needed but the current TFG failed to comply with the road map set by the International Community. The political process should be dynamic and take a new dimension since the circumstances have so much changed since the last Djibouti peace process.

    The new dimension should focus on SOMALIA rather than SOMALILAND. The new political process needs to concentrate what once was called “The Italian Somalia”, get rid of the Extremists, get rid of the other armed groups/clan militias and make one government that can represent the people in that region.

    Any Somaliland’s breakup or union with Somalia should take that dimension set by the International Community. It should be a political process rather than a fighting or violent measures. Negotiations, and peace talks could be then arranged between the two sides to agree on the best choices that can be the benefit of the both sides.

    The current Somalia’s road map needs review, amendment and adjustment to reflect what i mentioned above.

    Thank you

    1. ROOBLE
      ROAD-MAP is not benefing somali people and has been involved by
      so called international community.
      only somali people can decide their constitution as well as road-map
      of their own but we will never accept the misleadings of outsiders, those who distroyed our beloved Somalia in oder to protect the black christian nations.
      It does not matter how long it takes, one day Great Somalia will come back.
      People should demonstrate the deceiving conference of UK and its friend. Who expect they build somalia, is missing the reality.

    2. Dear Matt,

      I am a part time editor of the Somali Public Radio. Just to refute the delusional claims secessionists make on the regions of Makhir, a major event was held in Nairobi yesterday to commemorate the 5th year anniversary of Maakhir State of Somalia. The event was attended by several TFP members including Asha A. Abdalla who in general represents the rights of women in Somalia. Maakhir state reaffirms its allegiance to the Somali unity. Please visit spr.fm and watch the event. For more authoritative source, I would recommend that you visit the website for Northern Somalis for Peace and Unity (NSPU).

      1. Dear Matt,
        UK roadmap policy in Somalia is causing havoc and tension in peaceful areas in Somalia and Somaliland. Politicians suddenly emerging from all over the region assuming that they will get leverage in decision or negotiation process in Somalia and Somaliland. We need UK government to come forward, stand firm, and to send clear message through the media to those opportunists and convey to them their behaviour will not be tolerated.

    3. What is wanted is something more akin to the Marshall plan; I’m certain that their will no tangible change in the Horn of Africa until Somalia, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Djibouti get sustainable economies. I appreciate that most may think that this would be an invitation for a second round of western colonisation, but the beauty of Marshall’s vision was that it was reliant upon the recipients guiding the process, not the donors. I’d go further – I’d advocate for a supranational body called something like the Northe East Africa Development Bank (East African Development Bank has already been taken) which would issue debt securities, and could issue these on both a conventional and Islamic basis. being able to fund some fairly major infrastructure projects (aimed at providing energy, water and food security) for the region would form the basis towards achieving both internal and inward investment into the region. there is no reason why this development could not be sustainable either – and certainly a regional style and identity should be encouraged as well. I’m certain that the talent to drive this forward exists.

    4. As a Somalis have we learn or earn anything from past twenty years and why this time of are more important than others that we have had try and fail. Because this time Western interest were involve or the whole country and the Somali society was on sale, if it’s on sale whom is gone buy by how much and whom is for sale. Solve first the roots of the problem and then come to the peace process and reconciliation. I haven’t seen Somalia since 1986. The world has change much of it either political, economical and socially, but Somalia are steal same old day. And the old dag cannot teach the new trick. That is the Somali and their society which is base on clan and I am better then you. Somali was history and never come back to the stage and be part of the world. My question is who is gone benefit, if and only the peace has come and rise the horn of Africa? The cold war is over and we Somalis has welcome to the new colonial.

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About Matt Baugh

Matt is married to Caroline, a GP from South London specialising in pre-hospital care and tropical medicine. They have 3 small children. Matt has been working on Somalia since May…

Matt is married to Caroline, a GP from South London
specialising in pre-hospital care and tropical medicine. They have 3
small children. Matt has been working on Somalia since May 2010, when he was appointed the UK’s Senior Representative and Head of the UK’s
Somalia Office. On 2 February 2012 he was accredited as the first
British Ambassador to Somalia for 21 years. Since taking up his Somalia
appointment, he has been able to travel to Mogadishu, Hargeisa and
Garowe, and has been deeply touched by the warmth of the welcome he has received, but also the scale of the challenges that Somali people face
every day.
Matt is a career civil servant and is currently on secondment to the
Foreign Office from the UK Department for International Development. Now 37, he has spent much of his career to date dealing with conflict,
security and humanitarian issues. Since 1999 he has worked in Iraq,
Sudan, Afghanistan and the Balkans, as well as a number of major relief
operations and protracted emergencies. He also helped to set up and lead
the UK’s Post Conflict Reconstruction Unit, now the UK Stabilisation
Unit. Matt is a graduate of the UK Joint Services Command and Staff
College’s Higher Command and Staff Course (2010) and was previously
Principal Private Secretary to the Secretary of State for International
Development (2008-9).
Away from work, Matt is an avid England rugby fan (although he
refuses to admit his own playing days are long over). He is also a keen
mountaineer and skier and, together with Caroline, was part of a team
that raced to the Magnetic North Pole in 2005. These days he is more
likely to be found teaching his children how to swim and build
sandcastles.