Authorities in Somaliland have condemned Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s planned visit to LasAnod, calling it a “provocative” move amid ongoing tensions over the contested Sool region.
In a statement issued Thursday, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the visit as a violation of Somaliland’s claimed territorial control and warned it could disrupt regional stability. “Such actions threaten ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the Horn of Africa,” the statement read.
LasAnod, located in eastern Sool, has been at the center of a dispute between Somaliland and local clans. In August 2023, Somaliland forces were pushed out of the city after sustained conflict with clan militias opposed to secession. An interim administration known as Khatumo, backed by local elders and communities, has since taken control of the area. While Khatumo has expressed a desire to be part of Somalia’s federal structure, it has not yet been fully recognized by the federal government in Mogadishu.
Somaliland officials argue that the Prime Minister’s visit would amount to interference and warned Mogadishu would be held accountable for any resulting instability. They also called on international actors—such as the African Union, IGAD, the UN, and the Arab League—to intervene and discourage what they view as escalatory actions.
Despite the warning, the statement from Hargeisa reaffirmed Somaliland’s commitment to peaceful dialogue, but made clear it would not hesitate to defend what it sees as its sovereignty.
The Somali federal government has not yet responded publicly to the statement or confirmed details of the planned visit. Analysts say the trip could carry political symbolism, particularly as the federal government navigates delicate relations with emerging local administrations and Somaliland.