Hargeisa, (Horn post) Senior Somaliland politician Hassan Mohamed Ali “Gafadhi,” a member of the ruling Kulmiye Party and a former cabinet minister, has described Israel’s recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as fully consistent with international law and the legitimate exercise of the right to self-determination.
Hassan Mohamed Ali Gafadhi, who previously served as Somaliland’s Minister of Health, Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, and Minister of Planning between 2017 and 2024, said the recognition aligns with established international legal principles and the de jure foundations of Somaliland’s statehood claim.
“Recognition of Somaliland by Israel conforms with international rules and the rightful justification of the nation’s quest for self-determination, based on the de jure nature of the case,” Gafadhi stated.
He argued that the 1960 union between Somaliland and Somalia lacked a valid legal basis, noting that it was neither properly ratified nor reflective of the aspirations of the people of Somaliland. According to Gaafaadhi, the failure of that union manifested early, including an aborted coup in 1961, a mishandled referendum, and ultimately a prolonged armed struggle.
“The outcome was a decade of conflict marked by widespread material destruction, the devastation of major cities, and what amounted to indiscriminate human genocide,” he said.
Gafadhi maintained that, in light of this historical and legal context, the international community faces a clear choice regarding Somaliland.
“Countries now have only two options: to follow the same bold steps taken by Israel, or to mind their own business, as this is not an international dispute but an internal matter,” he said.
Addressing Somalia directly, the former minister asserted that the era of what he described as unfounded claims and accusations has ended, urging Mogadishu to accept the political reality on the ground.
“For Somalia, the time for false claims and accusations is over. I advise you to move in step with the undeniable reality unfolding before your eyes—recognize Somaliland before it is too late,” Gaafaadhi added.
Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has triggered renewed debate across the Horn of Africa and beyond, with Somaliland officials and political figures increasingly framing the issue as one of legal continuity, historical justice, and the internationally recognized right of peoples to self-determination.
Prepared:
Horn post Reporter
