Hargeisa (Dawan Africa) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” has warned that any group or government that attempts to violate Somaliland’s territorial integrity will face a response, stating that the region is fully prepared to defend itself from external threats.
The remarks came on Wednesday during a visit to the General Command of Somaliland’s armed forces in Hargeisa, where the president addressed senior military officers. He emphasized that Somaliland’s decades-long stability should not be interpreted as weakness or a lack of readiness to respond to threats.
“Somaliland is a peaceful country. Since 1991, we’ve been known for our stability, which sets us apart from other parts of Somalia. But that doesn’t mean we won’t defend ourselves,” Irro said. “As outlined in the constitution, if aggression comes from outside, the national army will respond.”
He added that Somaliland does not plan to initiate conflict but is ready to respond swiftly if its territorial integrity is challenged.
“We have never had plans to attack anyone, and we do not have such a plan now. But we remind anyone who tries to violate, provoke, or encroach on Somaliland that their homes will be the ones reached if action is taken.”
Irro’s remarks come as Somaliland had earlier firmly opposed a plan by the Federal Government of Somalia to establish the North East State of Somalia, which has been implemented in the regions of Sool, Sanaag, and Togdheer — areas claimed by Somaliland. Somaliland has described the move as illegal and a political interference that directly undermines its borders and political existence.
