#Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi

[saxafimedianetwork]

Ethiopia Recognizes Somaliland In Exchange For Seaport Access

#Somaliland has signed a port access deal with #Ethiopia, allowing it to diversify its seaport access and secure access to Berbera. In exchange, Ethiopia will become the first nation to recognize Somaliland as an independent country, angering the government of #Somalia.

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[zvaigzdelasas]

Somalia is prepared to go to war to stop Ethiopia recognising the breakaway territory of Somaliland and building a port there, a senior adviser to Somalia’s president has said.[...]

Last Sunday its president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, called on Somalis to “prepare for the defence of our homeland”, while rallies have been held in Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, against the agreement.[...]

Ethiopia and Somalia fought a conflict in 1977-78 over a disputed region and tensions still run deep. Ethiopia [at the time ruled by the US-supported TPLF] invaded Somalia in 2006 to dislodge [the ICU government] from Mogadishu, helping to spark the Al-Shabaab insurgency, and today it is one of the largest contributors of troops in the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia.[...]

In an interview with the Observer, Somaliland’s foreign minister, Essa Kayd, said the port deal with Ethiopia will “legitimise our self-determination” and could spark a “domino effect” of other countries recognising the territory.[...]

However, there is confusion over the content of the deal between Somaliland and Ethiopia. Neither side has made the full text public.

When it was struck, Somaliland’s president, Muse Bihi Abdi, said Ethiopia had agreed to grant official recognition in return for a 50-year lease of a stretch of coastline, which it will develop for “naval and commercial” purposes. However, Ethiopia said it had only agreed to “make an in-depth assessment towards taking a position regarding the efforts of Somaliland to gain recognition”.

A western diplomat briefed on the deal described it as a “memorandum of misunderstanding”. “Ethiopia insists they did not agree to recognise Somaliland,” the diplomat said.

Kayd said the deal is based on Ethiopia granting recognition to Somaliland: “Without that, nothing is going to happen.” He added that discussions had been progressing “for years”. “Ethiopia needs sea access and we need recognition, so you can see how these needs can be dealt with.”[...]

On Thursday, Abiy’s adviser drew parallels between Ethiopia’s quest for sea access and its construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a potentially transformational hydro­electric project on the Blue Nile, which was built despite objections and military threats from Egypt.[...]

Mohamud visited Eritrea last week and is preparing to travel to Egypt. The countries are Ethiopia’s main regional rivals and have both expressed support for Somalia in the wake of the port deal. “Abiy sees this as a legacy issue,” said Boswell. “If this deal with Somaliland falls through, Ethiopia will try to find a port somewhere else, so this is going to shape regional dynamics for years to come.”

13 Jan 24

[beardedmrbean]

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has said that his country "does not wish any harm" on neighbouring Somalia.

His comments in parliament came after Somalia accused landlocked Ethiopia of trying to annex part of its territory to gain access to the sea.

Last month, Ethiopia struck a controversial deal with the breakaway republic of Somaliland.

Somaliland, which Somalia sees as part of its territory, agreed to lease a stretch of coastline to Ethiopia.

Somalia described the agreement as an act of aggression and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud called on youths "to prepare for the defence of our country".

He also said that he would only talk to Ethiopia if the deal was withdrawn.

Protests against the deal have also been held in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, with tens of thousands of people turning up to express their opposition.

Meanwhile, diplomats have tried to calm tensions and said that Somalia's sovereignty over all its territory needs to be recognised.

In an apparent move to dampen concerns, Mr Abiy painted a picture to MPs on Monday of brotherhood among the neighbours, despite a devastating war between the two countries in the 1970s.

"The people of Ethiopia and Somalia are bound by blood. Many Ethiopians have died for the peace of Somalia," he said, seemingly referring to the Ethiopian forces that have backed Somalia's government in its fight with armed Islamist group al-Shabab.

"Therefore, the friendship between the two countries is profound," Mr Abiy added.

He went on to blame "some forces [for] trying to incite conflict between the two nations". But he also continued to talk about access to the sea arguing that it would benefit the whole region.

Mr Abiy had previously described sea access as an "existential issue" for his country.

On 1 January, he signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi.

An MoU is a statement of intent rather than a legally binding agreement.

As part of the deal, Somaliland said it was ready to grant Ethiopia access to the sea for commercial traffic through a port. It also said it could lease a section of the coast to Ethiopia's navy.

In return, Somaliland said that Ethiopia would recognise its independence, but this has not been confirmed by Addis Ababa.

Somaliland, a former British protectorate, declared itself independent from Somalia in 1991 and has all the trappings of a country, including a working political system, regular elections, a police force and its own currency.

But its independence has not been recognised by any country.

[somalilandcurrentnews]

Red Sea Power Play: Ethiopia and Somaliland Ink a Controversial Pact

In 2024, the Horn of Africa region saw significant political turmoil. In the beginning of the New Year, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland, reached a MoU. This agreement will grant Ethiopia, a landlocked country, with instant and unrestricted access to the Red Sea for military objectives. Upon initial observation, the arrangement seems to be a…

[warganenews]

Somaliland President meets with the leaders of political organizations for a critical discussion regarding recent developments.

President Muse Bihi briefs them on the Somaliland-Ethiopian MoU and the summit on the resumption of Somaliland-Somalia talks. The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Musa Bihi Abdi, on Sunday held a crucial meeting on briefings that lasted for several hours with the leaders of the ten political organizations that participated in the Somaliland National Party elections (hence became…

[somalilandpresidency]

Somaliland: President Bihi Revamps Council of Ministers

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Muse Bihi Abdi, has issued presidential decrees for the removal, appointment, and replacement of some members of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Somaliland. The Presidential Decree is as follows: Purpose: Dismissal  To: Abdiqadir Iman Warsame; Former Minister of Agriculture Development To: Dr. Abdiweli Sh. Abdullahi Sufi…

[warningsine]

In a significant political shift that redraws the geopolitical lines within Somalia, the Federal Government has granted recognition to SSC-Khatumo as a federal state. Once part of Somaliland, SSC-Khatumo now stands independently within the federation, a status that has sparked celebration, conjecture, and a new chapter in the country’s ongoing narrative of strife and unity.

Amidst the jubilant reactions, forum members have engaged in lively discourse, dissecting the implications of SSC-Khatumo’s newfound status. Macawisley, a forum participant, deems the state as stable and competent, attributing its success to its efficacious public services and security. Another member, Thegoodshepherd, celebrates the recognition as a triumph for those resisting the fragmentation of Somalia, expressing admiration for the country’s leadership.

Yet, the euphoria is not without a sense of uncertainty. Questions arise about SSC-Khatumo’s exact position within the federal structure, and the transitionary processes that lie ahead. User DR OSMAN posits SSC-Khatumo might exist under the Federal Government of Somalia as an interim state for two years before full recognition, a speculation seconded by XuseenS.

A Precarious Balance

The decision arrives at a tense juncture, with President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland sounding war drums and labeling his self-declared republic in a state of war, identifying neighboring Puntland as the primary adversary. Bihi’s calls for internal unity against perceived enemies and his staunch refusal to alter Somaliland’s colonial-era borders may further exacerbate the strained ties with SSC-Khatumo, which has decidedly distanced itself from Somaliland’s secessionist ambitions.

An armed confrontation between Somaliland and SSC-Khatumo could potentially destabilize not only the two regions but also ripple across Somalia. The international community, while advocating peace and dialogue, remains silent on Bihi’s bellicose remarks.

Quest for Peace

Amid escalating tensions, the leader of SSC-Khatumo is presently in Mogadishu, seeking to deescalate the situation through diplomatic channels with President Hassan Sheikh and Prime Minister Hamza. SSC-Khatumo’s military forces have been instructed to abstain from crossing into Somaliland’s tribal borders, indicating a desire for peace despite the brewing storm.

The recognition of SSC-Khatumo as a federal state, therefore, is more than a mere political development; it signals the complex and dynamic nature of Somalia’s political landscape, teetering on a fragile peace. As discussions and debates continue, this development may either herald a new era of stability or catalyze further conflict. The world watches, waiting to see how this delicate dance of power and diplomacy unfolds.

[horntribune]

The President inaugurates National Certificate of Examinations exercises

He urged students not to worry about the exams since it’s a normal process By M.A. Egge The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Muse Bihi Abdi inaugurated the annual National Certificate Examination for the form four and class eight secondary and primary schools that kicked off on Saturday 17th June. The examinations started across the country in for all candidates sitting for…

[berberanews]

A US delegation meets Somaliland president

Hargeisa-(Berberanews)-Acting Somali Ambassador and Deputy Ambassador Tim Trenkle, along with a delegation led by him, arrived in Hargeisa, Somaliland, today. D.R Isse Kayd Mohamud, Somaliland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, met the delegation at Hargeisa’s Igal Airport. In Hargeisa, the delegation met with Somaliland’s President, Muse Bihi Abdi. According to a Presidency news release, President…

[don-lichterman]

Emboldened by Support from a U.S. Congressman, Somaliland's President Cancels Election and Extends his Rule by Two Years

Emboldened by Support from a U.S. Congressman, Somaliland’s President Cancels Election and Extends his Rule by Two Years

President Muse Bihi Abdi of Somaliland. Somaliland’s President Adbi’s dictatorial actions continue to increase since receiving support from Republican Congressman Scott Perry of Pennsylvania. Muse Abdi & his ministers do not have the legitimacy to continue running the country in accordance with the Constitution. Continuance of his administration is tantamount to rule by force and autocracy” —…

[sounmashnews]

[ad_1] 
 President of Somaliland Muse Bihi Abdi. (Photo by Minasse Wondimu Hailu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
 Minasse Wondimu Hailu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images Lawmakers in Somalia's breakaway area of Somaliland have prolonged President Muse Bihi Abdi's present time period of workplace by two years forward of its expiry in November, the senate chairman mentioned on Saturday.The area's electoral physique mentioned final month it had postponed a presidential election due in November to 2023 due to time and monetary constraints, amongst different causes.It was unclear whether or not that ballot has now been scrapped.Saleeban Mahmoud Aden, Somalialand's senate chairman, mentioned 72 members of parliament voted on Saturday to increase Abdi's time period by a "two-year period." One MP objected.In August, lethal protests by opposition supporters broke out within the area with demonstrators demanding elections be held in November amid suspicions the president needed to delay the ballot and lengthen his time period.READ | Kenya 'regrets' presence of Somaliland flag at eventThere was no rapid response from the opposition to the parliament's extension of the president's time period.Somaliland broke away from Somalia in 1991 however has not gained widespread worldwide recognition for its independence. The area has been largely peaceable whereas Somalia has grappled with three many years of civil battle. We dwell in a world the place details and fiction get blurred In occasions of uncertainty you want journalism you'll be able to belief. For 14 free days, you'll be able to have entry to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, high opinions and a spread of options. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest sooner or later at the moment. Thereafter you can be billed R75 per 30 days. You can cancel anytime and in the event you cancel inside 14 days you will not be billed.  [ad_2] Source link

[saxafimedianetwork]

Somaliland Formally Acknowledges Giving Ethiopia Sea Access For Naval Forces In Exchange For Recognition

#Somaliland's @somalilandmfa has acknowledged a MoU signed b/t @AbiyAhmedAli & @musebiihi which includes providing sea access for #Ethiopia's Naval Forces in exchange for international recognition. The MoU will enable ET to secure sea access & diversify its seaports.

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[zvaigzdelasas]

[Addis Standard is Private Ethiopian Media]

In a lengthy interview with the Somaliland National Television (SLNTV), Muse Bihi Abdi, the President of Somaliland, shed light on the recent MoU signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, clarifying some confusions surrounding the deal. According to the president, the deal grants Ethiopia a naval base on the Red Sea, whereas Somaliland gets formal recognition as an independent state from Ethiopia, with both events occurring concurrently. Moreover he highlighted that the strip of land that Somaliland leases to Ethiopia will be used strictly for military purposes and does not involve any commercial activities, adding that Ethiopia’s imports and exports will utilize the port of Berbera under the jurisdiction of Somaliland. The president responded to claims from Somalia, and subsequent statements made by Egypt and the Arab League, among others.

25 Jan 24

[humanrightsupdates]

Poet held over poem calling for government reform

Abdirahman Ibrahim Adan, a poet in Somaliland, has been in detention since 12 January. He was arrested after he had recited a poem the previous day in which he called on the Somaliland government to reform its prisons and criminal justice system. Download the full Urgent Action including a template letter in PDF:

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TAKE ACTION NOW

Please write urgently in your own words or using the template letter in the link above, in Somali or English.

PLEASE SEND APPEALS BEFORE 20 MARCH 2019 TO:

Attorney General Hassan Ahmed Adam Somaliland Email: hassmo12@yahoo.com Salutation: Dear Attorney General And copies to: Somaliland Minister of Interior   Mohamed Kahin Ahmed a.y.kaahin@hotmail.com President of Somaliland   Muse Bihi Abdi goljanno99@gmail.com Ambassador   Benjamin James Fender British Embassy Mogadishu somalia.enquiries@fco.gov.uk Also send copies to diplomatic representatives accredited to your country. Mission of Somaliland, 234-236 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1BJ, 020 3441 2631,contact@somaliland-mission.com Please check with your section before sending appeals after the above date.

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It is so important to report your actions: we record the number of actions taken on each case and use that information in our advocacy. Please click the below link if you take action. Thank you.

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[somalilandcurrentnews]

Somaliland: President inaugurates the second National Economic Forum conference

He prioritizes nationhood and defence of the nation in his address By M.A. Egge The President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Muse Bihi Abdi, officially opened the second conference of the National Economic Forum which started Saturday in the city of Hargeisa. The purpose of the conference is to mainly make recommendations that would contribute to the economic challenges in the country, and…

[kayla1993-world]

Somaliland capital counts cost of devastating blaze

The mayor of Hargeisa, capital of the breakaway region of Somaliland, estimated the blaze that engulfed the Waheen market had caused losses of up to $2 billion.

Officials have issued urgent appeals for help to rebuild the open-air market, which was the bustling economic heart of Hargeisa with about 2,000 shops and stalls.

The fire broke out late Friday and the flames rapidly swept through the market, consuming everything in their path before they largely brought under control on Saturday.

They killed no one in the disaster that struck at the start of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, but they injured 28 people and hundreds of businesses destroyed, officials said. They do not yet know the cause.

"According to preliminary information about the damage the fire caused, there is an estimated loss of property ranging between $1.5 billion to $2 billion," Hargeisa mayor Abdikarim Mohamed Moge told reporters late Saturday.

"The town has never witnessed such a massive calamity."

He said the clean-up operation would begin on Tuesday after allowing residents and traders to retrieve any property that survived the blaze.

Somaliland's president Muse Bihi Abdi to lead the rescue operation and efforts to assist those the disaster has ruined whose livelihoods have set a five-member committee up.

Information minister Saleban Yusuf Ali Kore told reporters the flames destroyed an area of about 99,000 square metres (about 24 acres).

Images from the scene showed huge flames and clouds of smoke billowing into the sky over Hargeisa as the fire took hold, with many buildings destroyed or turned into charred wrecks, their windows blown out.

Somaliland's fire and rescue chief Ahmed Mohamed Hassan said at least 24 vehicles they used in the firefighting operation but they hampered by poor access in the sprawling market and the difficulty of breaking into shops locked up with iron bars.

"We have been complaining about the overcrowding here for some time and sent our concerns to the business owners, but they have ignored our calls to clear the clogged pathways," he said.

"I hope they will learn from this."

Several countries, including Britain, which once ruled Somaliland as a protectorate, and neighbouring Ethiopia and Djibouti, have offered support and sympathy over the disaster.

"Your city will rise again and the UK will do what we can to support Somaliland’s rebuilding effort," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted on Saturday, without giving details.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, an act not recognised by the international community that has left the region of 4.5 million people poor and isolated.

Somaliland has, however, remained a comparative beacon of stability while decades of political violence have wracked Somalia.