How Somaliland -Somalia Agreement Undermines Somaliland’s Sovereignty.
1. Disregard for Constitutional Identity:
In contravention of principles outlined in Somaliland’s Constitution (particularly Article 1 and 53), the failure to recognize Somaliland as the Republic of Somaliland diminishes its constitutional recognition and distinct status.
2.Manipulation of Historical Representation:
The usage of vague language to avoid acknowledging significant historical events like the Genocide contradicts the right to historical truth, as guaranteed by international legal frameworks such as the United Nations Declaration on the Right to Truth. This undermines Somaliland’s historical narrative and truth.
3. Undermining Signatory Protocol:
The involvement of Interior Ministers instead of higher-ranking diplomatic representatives during the signing contradicts customary international practice for bilateral agreements. This diminishes Somaliland’s dignified representation and violates principles of international protocols.
4 Host Country Influence:
Djibouti’s bias towards unionism and vested interests in Somalia challenges the principle of neutrality required in hosting international discussions. This bias clearly influenced the outcome.
5. Legal Concerns with Bihi’s Mandate:
President Bihi’s restarting talks despite an expired mandate raises concerns about adherence to Somaliland’s constitutional principles. This particularly questions the legitimacy of representation in bilateral agreements.
6. Narrative Control and Subjugation of Somaliland’s Status:
Somalia deliberately crafted an agreement and a narrative that portray the Republic of Somaliland as a federal member state of Somalia. This calculated narrative manipulation successfully placed the discussions within Somalia’s broader Federalisation and Reconciliation framework.
Thanks to Djibouti’s biased support and the ineffective conduct of the Somaliland delegation inadvertently aided Somalia’s efforts to diminish Somaliland’s sovereignty and representation.
This intentional narrative subversion violated international legal norms that promote fair representation and mutual respect in bilateral discussions.
Hamse A. Khaire
@KhaireHamse