Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi condemned foreign diplomats for comments perceived as undermining Somalia’s unity during Somaliland’s presidential elections. He emphasized that describing Somaliland as a separate entity violates Somalia’s sovereignty.
Speaking on Saturday at a diplomatic graduation ceremony, Fiqi highlighted concerns over ambassadors’ remarks in Hargeisa, accusing them of exceeding diplomatic boundaries. He revealed that Denmark’s ambassador had been summoned, and all foreign representatives were warned to respect Somalia’s territorial integrity.
“Future references to Somaliland must affirm it is a Somali region,” Fiqi warned, noting that violations would prompt decisive action from Mogadishu.
While international observers commended Somaliland’s peaceful elections, statements from the British ambassador, Mike Nithavrianakis, sparked particular outrage. Somali officials accused him of framing Somalia and Somaliland as separate entities, a recurring point of contention.
The HALO Trust, a demining organization active in both territories since 1999, continues providing critical aid amidst these tensions. Meanwhile, Somalia’s government maintains that Somaliland remains an integral part of the nation, labeling separatism a top security threat in a resolution passed earlier this year.
