In a recent address to the military forces stationed in the Eastern Command of Oog, President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland accused the Somali government of “deliberate attempts to destabilize Somaliland.” Speaking with strong conviction, President Bihi alleged that Somalia has been involved in acts of sabotage within Somaliland.
President Bihi specifically highlighted recent incidents in the Awdal region, where he claimed the Somali government attempted to incite unrest and organize efforts against Somaliland. “Hasan Sheikh and the party that is after his interests are tired of us, and we are resisting their war, and we are going through any problem,” Bihi stated, referring to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his administration.
Bihi’s remarks underscore a deepening rift between Somaliland and Somalia, with both sides increasingly at odds over a range of issues, including territorial integrity and political autonomy.
Tensions between the two sides have significantly escalated following the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia on maritime cooperation. This agreement, viewed by Somalia as a threat to its own maritime interests, has led to a series of heated exchanges.
The ongoing conflict poses a significant threat to the stability of the Horn of Africa, a region already fraught with political and security challenges. The involvement of Ethiopia in Somaliland’s maritime affairs has further complicated the situation, potentially drawing in additional regional actors.
