Not every step needs Applause–just understanding
In moments of historic significance, let us not be distracted by whispers. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Cirro’s official visit to Doha, Qatar marks a profound diplomatic milestone; the first time a sitting President of the Republic of Somaliland has been received in the State of Qatar. This moment is not only symbolic; it is strategic. It signals the continued evolution of our sovereign diplomacy and the confidence with which Somaliland engages the region and the world.
Yet, some voices, particularly among segments of the opposition, have begun spreading harmful rumors and premature judgment. They question our motives. They point to Qatar’s ties with Somalia, worry aloud about our relationship with the UAE, and suggest that Somaliland’s interests are somehow being compromised. But such conclusions not only ignore the nuance of diplomacy; they undermine the sovereignty we all claim to defend.
Let’s be absolutely clear: Qatar and the UAE have long since resolved their diplomatic dispute, and today they are cooperating across multiple fronts. The Horn of Africa is an interconnected and dynamic region. Somaliland does not have to choose sides — nor should it. Our path is defined by our interests, our identity, and our vision for peace, prosperity, and international recognition.
Diplomacy is not rigid. It is not black or white. It is the art of balancing multiple relationships, sometimes even those that appear to be in tension with one another. And in that art, President Cirro has shown both courage and maturity; engaging Kenya despite pressure from Somalia, deepening ties with Ethiopia while safeguarding our port development plans, and now, opening the door to dialogue and opportunity with Qatar.
Those who constantly stir suspicion and spread misinformation in the name of opposition should ask themselves: are you serving Somaliland, or sabotaging it? When our President met with President William Ruto in Nairobi and announced the upgrade of Somaliland’s diplomatic presence in Kenya, some of these same critics stood silently alongside those in Mogadishu who opposed it. Is that what loyalty to your nation looks like?
This isn’t about politics. It’s about patriotism. It’s about trusting the statecraft of a government elected by the people to make difficult choices in the best interests of the nation. Not every citizen needs to be a diplomat, but we all should strive to be informed. Trust does not mean blind allegiance; but constant skepticism is not wisdom either.
Somaliland’s foreign policy is not dictated by fear. It is not shaped by the noise of doubters. It is shaped by vision, strategy, and our rightful place in the world. This visit to Qatar is part of that journey. And like every step we’ve taken before; it is deliberate, thoughtful, and anchored in the reality that Somaliland is a sovereign actor with the right to engage any nation in pursuit of peace and prosperity.
Let us rise above the rumors. Let us support our leaders when they take bold steps on behalf of our people. Let us show the world that Somaliland speaks with clarity, acts with confidence, and walks its own road in the spirit of dignity and diplomacy.
Thank you
Abdi Halim M. Musa
E-mail: halimusa4@gmail.com
