The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland has generated significant discourse in the Horn of Africa, particularly as Somalia considers Somaliland part of its territory. Signed at the beginning of 2024, this agreement seeks to provide Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence. In response, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vocally opposed the deal, accusing Ethiopia of encroaching on Somalia’s sovereignty.
In a strategic maneuver, Somalia has enhanced its relations with Ethiopia’s rivals, notably Egypt and Eritrea, forming an alliance described by some observers as an “axis against Ethiopia.” This coalition appears aimed at exerting pressure on Ethiopia regarding the contentious MoU.
Amidst this geopolitical turmoil, Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the agreement, suggesting that a formal legal framework will soon be established. However, the upcoming presidential and legislative elections on November 13, 2024, introduce complexities for Abdi and his party, the Kulmiye Peace, Unity, and Development Party, which holds 30 out of 82 parliamentary seats. Their main competitor, the Somaliland National Party (Waddani), currently leads with 31 seats.
Recently, senior Waddani leaders, including Mohamed Abdillahi Omar, visited Addis Ababa to outline their perspective on the MoU. In an interview, Omar shared insights into the motivations behind their visit and the implications of the MoU for Somaliland. He emphasized Waddani’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia if they win the upcoming elections and welcomed partnerships that serve the mutual interests of both nations. However, he criticized the current administration for not providing the opposition or the parliament with details of the MoU.
Omar reaffirmed Waddani’s vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Somaliland that seeks international recognition. He defended Somaliland’s right to forge agreements with any nation, citing past collaborations with countries like the UAE, and urged Somalia to focus on its internal challenges, such as law enforcement and combating terrorism.
Omar characterized Ethiopia’s desire for port access as legitimate, highlighting Berbera port’s strategic importance as a commercial hub. He expressed concern over military actions by various regional actors that could threaten stability and criticized the recent military collaboration between Somalia, Egypt, and Eritrea. Such escalations could undermine the fragile peace established over the years and lead to severe consequences.
Waddani leaders express a commitment to enhancing regional partnerships while navigating the complexities of independence and international recognition in a turbulent geopolitical environment.