Mogadishu, Somalia – November 16, 2024:- Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, has issued a strong warning to foreign diplomats, particularly some EU ambassadors, over congratulatory messages regarding Somaliland’s recent elections. The ministry condemned these statements as undermining Somalia’s sovereignty and unity, and contrary to established diplomatic principles.
Minister Fiqi specifically criticized Danish Ambassador to Somalia, Steen Anderson, for referring to Somaliland as an independent country in his comments. Fiqi announced that the Somali government would soon summon the Danish Ambassador to address the matter, reaffirming Somalia’s position that Somaliland remains an integral part of the country.
While condemning the remarks, Minister Fiqi also congratulated the people of Somaliland for their peaceful conduct during the elections, signaling that the election outcome could serve as a stepping stone toward the resumption of talks between Somalia and Somaliland.
The statement sparked immediate backlash from Somaliland politicians, including Barqad Jama Batuun of the opposition Wadani party, who described Fiqi’s comments as inflammatory and dismissive of Somaliland’s achievements.
The diplomatic row comes at a time of political tension, with Somaliland having successfully concluded its direct election, while Somalia continues to struggle with internal divisions over electoral reforms.