In a stirring address during the final cabinet meeting of the year, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro delivered uplifting news to the people of Somaliland, announcing that Israel’s recent formal recognition of the republic marks the beginning of a broader wave of international acceptance.
“I am giving good news to the people that many other countries are joining us on the path and will recognize us, God willing,”
President Irro declared, sparking optimism amid the historic shift following Israel’s groundbreaking decision on December 26 to become the first UN member state to acknowledge Somaliland’s sovereignty.
The president extended profound gratitude to cabinet members, parliamentarians from both houses, political parties, the media, and civil society for their unwavering support in advancing Somaliland’s quest for global recognition. He highlighted the nation’s remarkable unity, describing it as “100% united” in pursuit of this goal.
In a pointed critique of opposition from Mogadishu, President Irro praised Somaliland’s religious scholars as “heroes” who stood firmly with their people, countering what he described as Somalia’s primary tactic of deploying clerics to block recognition efforts.
“The main weapon Somalia used in its war against Somaliland to prevent recognition was the religious scholars. And I thank Somaliland’s scholars for showing that they are heroes,” he stated.
Addressing known adversaries, the president urged citizens to remain vigilant: “Somaliland has gained and clearly identified many people and countries that have shown hostility toward Somaliland and its people. We hold no hostility toward anyone, but those who have shown it to us, we must know them, distinguish them from us, and label them as enemies; those who are friends with us will remain friends.
“To those dismayed by Somaliland’s progress, he offered a firm message: “Confine yourselves to your work and interests; no one can stop Somaliland’s recognition.”
Turning to domestic security, President Irro issued a passionate call to action, proposing that every citizen play an active role in safeguarding the nation.
“I propose that we protect our security, that every citizen becomes a police officer, intelligence agent, peacekeeper, and guardian, and that the people unite,” he said. “We need to further strengthen that unity and collectively safeguard the victory.”
As the year draws to a close, President Irro’s words resonate as a rallying cry for continued resilience and collective effort, positioning Somaliland on the cusp of greater international legitimacy after decades of de facto independence.
