MASSIVE POPULAR DEMONSTRATIONS IN SOMALILAND

Public demonstrations are taking place in all major towns of Somaliland. Violent clashes resulting at least three deaths in Hargeisa and Erigabo are confirmed by the police. Dozens were reportedly wounded. The issue is about which comes first, chicken or egg? Reform of political parties or holding presidential poll? Failing to reach consensus on the issue has led to this political confrontation between the Regime of President Muse Bihi Abdi and political parties.

The elephant in the room, however, is the fact that the Gooni-isu-Taagii Somaliland (secession or unilateral declaration of Somaliland independence) has come to a dead end. Diminishing returns for Somaliland “project” have led to the flight of thousands of Somaliland youth to either perish in the highest seas or move to other parts of larger Somalia, seeking livelihoods and opportunities.

President Muse Bihi behaves like inexperienced soldier playing with gun fire. He should be careful about initiating renewed clan wars in that part of Somalia.