The leader of the breakaway region of Somaliland issued a stern statement concerning SSC Khatumo’s bid to be recognized as an independent state under the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS).
Addressing an economic forum in Hargeisa on Saturday, President Muse Bihi firmly stated that he will not allow the formation of a new administration in the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions ,collectively known as SSC, vowing that Somaliland will vigorously defend its territories.
“If anyone believes that it’s easy to attack Somaliland, those hostile to Somaliland will face the consequences and will not be allowed to encroach our land,” he underscored.
Two months ago, SSC Khatumo forces ousted Somaliland troops after eight months of conflict. Despite this, Somaliland still asserts that the SSC region belongs to them and opposes any move to separate it.
Bihi further accused the neighbouring state of Puntland of trying to expand its territories and warned them of dire consequences.
Both breakaway Somaliland and the semi-autonomous state of Puntland lay claim on SSC regions.
Last week, the leader of the SSC Khatumo administration, Abdikhadir Firdhiye, declared that his people will not participate in Puntland’s elections and would instead seek federal membership.
On Friday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre met with SSC Khatumo leader at the Presidential palace in Mogadishu.
The meeting aimed to address the ongoing challenges and work towards a peaceful resolution in the SSC region. The outcome and the fate of SSC Khatumo still remain uncertain.
