In a recent interview with The Reporter Ethiopia, Dr. Dareskedar Taye, a researcher at Ethiopia’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA), shared insights into Ethiopia’s perception of Somaliland under its newly elected President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi. As the IFA operates under Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Taye’s remarks carry significant weight and suggest a shift in the dynamics between Ethiopia and Somaliland.
Ethiopia’s Perspective on Somaliland
Dr. Taye noted that while Ethiopia’s position on Somaliland remains consistent, Somaliland’s foreign policy appears to have shifted under the new administration. He stated, “The new administration in Somaliland appears to prefer aligning with the Somali government rather than asserting itself as an independent state.”
This observation is striking, given Somaliland’s long-standing aspiration for international recognition as a sovereign state.
Context: The Ethiopia-Somaliland MoU
On 1st January 2024, Somaliland’s previous administration, led by President Muse Bihi Abdi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia. The deal granted Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s ports, with an understanding that Ethiopia would support Somaliland’s bid for statehood. While controversial domestically and regionally, the MoU symbolised Somaliland’s commitment to leveraging its strategic location to gain recognition.
However, following President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi’s election on 13th November 2024, Ethiopia moved swiftly to sign a separate deal with Somalia. Dr. Taye’s remarks suggest that this shift reflects Ethiopia’s perception of Somaliland’s new government as being more aligned with Mogadishu than with its longstanding independence agenda.
Signals of a Policy Shift in Somaliland
Several developments under the new administration raise questions about its priorities. Somaliland’s newly appointed foreign minister publicly criticised the MoU.
The president appointed a special envoy widely believed to be tasked with resuming talks with Somalia, a move that fuels suspicions of closer ties with Mogadishu.
These actions have sparked internal concerns about the government’s commitment to Somaliland’s quest for recognition.
Risks of Internal Division and Destabilisation
Somaliland’s statehood aspirations are a unifying force for its people. A government perceived as compromising this goal risks igniting internal divisions, potentially destabilising the country. The shift in foreign policy also comes at a critical juncture, as there is speculation that the new U.S. administration may be open to engaging with Somaliland.
Conclusion
Regardless of whether Dr. Taye’s assessment of Somaliland’s new government is accurate, the perception itself highlights a failure in the government’s foreign affairs approach. This perceived pivot towards Mogadishu undermines Somaliland’s long-standing strategy of seeking recognition and could weaken its internal cohesion.
For Somaliland to maintain its unity and advance its aspirations, the new administration must reaffirm its commitment to statehood and carefully navigate its foreign relations.
About the Author
Guleid Ahmed Jama is a Lawyer and political analyst based in Hargeisa, Somaliland.
Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the opinions or perspectives of Somaliland Chronicle and its staff.