By: M.A Jirde
On Wednesday, the incumbent Somaliland President H.E Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi Irro presided over the 49th weekly cabinet meeting held at the Presidential Palace. The Minister responsible for Religious Affairs, Hon. Abdilahi Bashe Dahir, briefed the cabinet on the role of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in raising awareness among the public about the historic recognition of the Republic of Somaliland. He praised the Somaliland religious scholars for their significant role in defending the recognition of Somaliland. However, he strongly condemned the interference of Somali religious scholars who are using religion for political purposes, which goes against the principles of Islam. He emphasized that this does not change Somaliland’s right to establish diplomatic ties with the international community. He also clarified that the recognition granted by the State of Israel to Somaliland will not affect the practice of Islam by the Somaliland people. In addition, the Minister of Public Works and Housing, Hon. Hussein Ahmed Aidid, reported that a large delegation consisting of ministers, director generals, and departmental directors conducted a working tour of the Hawd region and inspected various districts. He stated that they assessed the current situation on the ground and identified the basic needs of the residents. The Minister in charge of Local Government and Urban Development, Hon. Hassan Ahmed Yusuf alias Ma’alin, informed the cabinet that he visited 63 districts across the country to assess the situation of the local residents, their basic services, and the challenges they face. He highlighted the urgent needs for water, health, education, and infrastructure, and the severe impact of the recent drought on the lives of the people and their livestock. He urged the Somaliland government and the Drought Relief Committee to respond immediately to the worsening situation. Furthermore, the Minister responsible for Sports and Youth, Hon. Ahmed Mohamed Farah, reported that the regional soccer competition in the port city of Berbera is running smoothly. He emphasized the close cooperation between the security agencies in Sahil region, the Berbera district authority, and the Sports Ministry to maintain peace and ensure the smooth running of the competition. He also announced that the current Soccer Regional Contest has attracted 2.5 million viewers at home and abroad. The Deputy Information, National Guidance, and Awareness Minister, Hon. Muse Askar Gulied, briefed the cabinet on the significant role of the ministry in disseminating information about the recognition of Somaliland. He stated that the ministry monitors news from foreign media about Somaliland and confirmed that both state and independent media have played a crucial role in defending the state of Somaliland. He also mentioned that the ministry has composed national songs to promote unity among the Somaliland people and respond to the country’s enemies.
