MOGADISHU, Somalia In a significant turn of events, elders from Somalia’s Awdal community have raised their voices against Ethiopia’s recent agreement with the self-declared autonomous region of Somaliland. This move has sparked concerns over territorial sovereignty, with the elders firmly stating their intention to defend their land, now perceived to be in jeopardy due to Addis Ababa’s actions earlier this month.
During a crucial meeting with Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Somalia’s Minister of Interior Security, the elders’ commitment to safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity was highlighted. Minister Fiqi commended their determination, describing Ethiopia’s move as a “severe attack” on Somalia’s sovereignty. Ethiopia, for its part, has not publicly commented on the deal or the ensuing controversy.
Minister Fiqi reiterated Somalia’s resolve to uphold its territorial boundaries and expressed the nation’s intention to maintain alliances with nations that respect its sovereignty. The Awdal region, central to this dispute, is situated within the boundaries of Somaliland, a territory that claims independence but is internationally recognized as part of Somalia.
“Ethiopia has historically eyed Somali territory, but our people have consistently defended our land against such encroachments. Our commitment to protecting our territory remains unwavering,” declared Minister Fiqi.
The meeting also saw the participation of Senator Deqa H. Hussein, head of the Internal Affairs Committee in the Upper House of Representatives, and Senator Bilal Idris Abdullahi. Both senators were open about Ethiopia’s alleged hidden agenda, according to state media.
Further emphasizing the Somali tradition of communal consultation, Minister Fiqi outlined the government’s plan to engage with traditional elders and community leaders in addressing this sensitive issue.
Recent days have witnessed escalating protests from the Awdal community against the contentious agreement. The deal, if implemented, would grant Ethiopia a 20-kilometer stretch of the Red Sea coast within Somali territory in exchange for recognizing Somaliland as an independent state. This development has raised significant questions about the future of regional stability and the implications for Somalia’s national integrity.
