Turkey's involvement in the negotiations raises suspicions,
1st of July, 2024 - In a bid to ease the escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, Turkey has stepped in as a mediator, seeking to rescind the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Somaliland and Ethiopia on the 12th of January 2024. The MoU, which grants Ethiopia 19km of border land and access to the Red Sea for 50 years in exchange for recognition of Somaliland's independence, has been vehemently condemned by Somalia, citing a violation of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Somalia's stance is built on a flawed premise, as Somaliland has a legitimate claim to independence. Having declared its independence from Britain on the 26th June, 1960, before Somalia gained its own independence on the 1st of July 1960, Somaliland's sovereignty was later reinstated after a conflict with Somalia on the 18th of May 1991. Despite this, Somalia continues to assert that Somaliland is not a separate state, fuelling unnecessary tensions with Ethiopia.
Turkey's involvement in the negotiations raises suspicions, as it has significant financial interests in Somalia, including military bases, seaports, airports, and hospitals. These interests may be driving Turkey's support for Somalia's stance on the issue.
The MoU has also drawn ire from Djibouti, which benefits from Ethiopia's use of its port and has military presence in southern Somalia. Djibouti is concerned about the potential loss of its financial interests if Somaliland gains recognition.
Somalia has made it clear that it will not permit Somaliland to grant access to any seaports in the region, citing that only Somalia has the authority to do so. Meanwhile, Somaliland leaders have failed to disclose all the facts of the MoU to the public, leaving many questions unanswered.
The next round of negotiations is set to take place on the 2nd of September 2024, to ease the tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia witu Turkey being the hosts. As Somaliland prepares for its election on the 13th of November 2024, citizens must be aware of the potential threats to their nation's security and unity.
It is imperative that the truth about Somaliland's independence and sovereignty is acknowledged by the international community. Only then can Somaliland achieve its rightfulÿ place among nations and avoid being manipulated by external interests.
Qore: - Ali Abdi Hersi.
hadhwanaagnews 
