Somaliland: Opposition Criticism Grows Over Somaliland-Ethiopia Agreement Amidst Public Uprising

In a press conference held on Monday in Hargeisa, the chairman of Somaliland’s main opposition party, Wadani, Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, voiced strong criticism against the recent agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia. The deal, allowing landlocked Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s coastline, has faced scrutiny and raised concerns within the public.

Mr. Hirsi emphasized the lack of clarity surrounding the agreement, stating, “The agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia is in darkness. We prioritize recognition and the community has rejected such an agreement.”

While the memorandum of understanding signed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland’s President allows Ethiopia to lease a 20-kilometer stretch of Somaliland’s coastline, Mr. Hirsi stressed that this agreement does not guarantee immediate recognition of Somaliland by Ethiopia. Instead, it suggests that recognition may be considered after Ethiopia secures its interests.

The opposition’s rejection of the agreement echoes growing discontent, with concerns about the lack of consultation and transparency in the decision-making process. The previous day, Somaliland’s Defense Minister, Abdiqani Mohamoud Ateye, resigned in protest, citing President Muse Bihi Abdi’s failure to consult the council of ministers on the port deal with Ethiopia.

Mr. Ateye’s resignation, coupled with widespread protests in the Awdal region, where Ethiopia intends to establish a military base, underscores the deepening divisions and public discontent surrounding this controversial agreement. As the situation unfolds, the scrutiny and opposition to the deal continue to shape the political landscape in Somaliland.