Araweelo News Network.
PRESS RELEASE
On May 18, 1991, the People of #Somaliland declared the formation of the independent Republic of Somaliland; and while world’s focus was on Somalia at that time and since, the people of Somaliland managed, through a unique and democratic process, to establish peace and stability in their country. Unfortunately, instead of supporting the achievements of the people of Somaliland, the UN and International community has not yet recognized the Republic of Somaliland, and continue to hold it hostage to the conflict between the warring warlords in the neighboring Somalia.
The people of Somaliland urge the US, and UN’s member states to grant international recognition to the Republic of Somaliland, and request the UN to accept it as a full-fledged member of that body. Such a step by the UN and its members is long overdue, and would be the proper course of action for the following reasons:
- Somaliland has a history of existing as a state. First, when it was The British Somaliland Protectorate {1880-1960}; and the second time during the brief between its independence on June 26, 1960 and its union with Somalia on July 1, 1960. During the latter period, it was known as the Somaliland State.
- The union between Somaliland and Somalia in 1960 was unfair and lacked proper legal foundation.
- During the ill-fated union {1960-1991}, the Mogadishu-based government of Late Dictator Mohamed Siyad Barre engaged in torture, aerial bombardment, and artillery shelling of Somaliland’s civilian population, which resulted in the death of 80,000 people, and the destruction of Somaliland’s cities, towns, and villages. These were not isolated acts, but part of a systematic and well-documented policy of genocide on the part of Somalia toward the people of Somaliland, and it went on for years.
- Somaliland meets the international requirements for recognizing new states. It is a de facto state which controls a definite territory, and has internationally recognizable border {these borders coincide with those of the former British Protectorate of Somaliland}. It also has an elected government, a free press, a parliament, and has engaged in international relations with other states for the last thirty years.
The people of Somaliland call on the Mohamed Farmajo government to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Somaliland, and to cease its hostile and unwarranted activities against it.
The Republic of Somaliland has proven its determination for and ability to build sovereign and democratic state and contribute towards peace, stability and development in the Horn of Africa. The people of Somaliland are urging the US, UN and its members-states to grant it international recognition and accept it as a full-fledged member.
ANIIS ESSA
SOMALILAND ADVOCACY GROUP
WASHINGTON DC. USA
