Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, has called for large-scale celebrations to mark the 66th anniversary of the country’s independence and unity, saying the occasion should demonstrate Somalia’s resilience in the face of external challenges.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary commemorations, Fiqi said this year’s celebrations should be held on a grand scale to show that Somalia remains strong and united despite what he described as growing threats from its adversaries.
“We want the 66th anniversary to be celebrated in a big way so that the world knows Somalia is alive, because many enemies have set their sights on the country,” Fiqi said.
The minister added that the celebrations should send a clear message to those seeking to undermine Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and stability, stressing that the Somali people remain committed to defending their nation against any attempts at division or interference.
Somalia’s northern regions gained independence from British colonial rule on June 26, 1960, while the southern regions achieved independence from Italy on July 1, 1960. The two territories united shortly afterward to form the Somali Republic.
The annual independence celebrations are among the most significant national events in Somalia, commemorating both independence and the union that created the modern Somali state.
Mustaqbal
