HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) – Chairman of Somaliland’s main opposition Kulmiye Party, Mohamed Kahin Ahmed, returned to Hargeisa on Tuesday after an overseas trip, receiving a large welcome from senior party officials, lawmakers, members of the party’s executive committee, central committee representatives, politicians and hundreds of supporters at Egal International Airport.
The reception highlighted Kahin’s continued influence within the opposition party as supporters gathered to welcome the veteran politician back to Somaliland.
Addressing the crowd after his arrival, Kahin delivered an extensive speech covering Somaliland’s decades-long quest for international recognition, national unity, democracy, security, economic challenges and the future of the Kulmiye Party.
Recognition Is a National Cause
Chairman Kahin emphasized that Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition should remain above partisan politics, arguing that it belongs to every Somaliland citizen regardless of political affiliation.
“Recognition does not belong to Kulmiye, Waddani, Mohamed Kahin or President Abdirahman Cirro. It belongs to the entire nation of Somaliland.”
He urged political leaders and citizens to stand together behind Somaliland’s diplomatic campaign, stressing that every achievement toward recognition should be celebrated collectively rather than politically.
“When recognition comes, we will not celebrate one political leader. We will celebrate Somaliland.”
Calls for Political Maturity
The Kulmiye chairman said political competition should never undermine Somaliland’s national interests, noting that opposition parties have a responsibility to support government initiatives that serve the country while holding the administration accountable where necessary.
“On matters that benefit Somaliland, we will cooperate with the government. Where the government takes the wrong path, we will challenge it.”
Kahin described Kulmiye as an experienced democratic opposition committed to strengthening Somaliland’s political system.
Security Concerns in Sanaag
Chairman Kahin also expressed concern over recurring security incidents in the Sanag region, urging President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and his administration to devote greater attention and resources to stabilizing the area.
He warned against allowing competition over newly discovered natural resources, including reports of mineral exploration, to fuel instability.
“If God blesses us with gold, minerals or oil, those resources should unite us—not become a source of conflict.”
Economic Challenges
Turning to the economy, Kahin said Somaliland faces increasing financial pressures, citing declining purchasing power, exchange-rate concerns and the rising cost of living.
While acknowledging that global conflicts have contributed to economic difficulties worldwide, he urged the government to introduce stronger economic policies aimed at easing pressure on ordinary citizens.
Kulmiye Party Conference
The opposition leader announced that Kulmiye is preparing to convene its Central Committee later this month, describing the meeting as an important milestone for the party.
He praised Kulmiye’s political legacy, noting that the party has produced two Somaliland presidents and governed the country for 14 years.
Chairman of Somaliland’s main opposition Kulmiye Party, Mohamed Kahin Ahmed said the upcoming conference would focus on strengthening both the party and Somaliland’s democratic institutions.
“Kulmiye is the country’s oldest political party. We will enter our conference as patriots committed to Somaliland’s future and democratic development.”
Historical Perspective
Throughout his speech, Chairman Kahin reflected on Somaliland’s history, recalling the territory’s independence on June 26, 1960, before its voluntary union with Somalia days later. He argued that Somaliland’s current campaign for international recognition is rooted in its historical sovereignty and democratic record.
He said the recognition effort requires national consensus, peace, political stability and effective diplomacy rather than division.
Looking Ahead
Chairman of Somaliland’s main opposition Kulmiye Party, Mohamed Kahin Ahmed concluded by thanking supporters for what he described as an unforgettable welcome and called on Somaliland’s political leaders, institutions and citizens to remain united in pursuing recognition, strengthening democracy and safeguarding national stability.
The remarks come as Somaliland continues to intensify its diplomatic outreach while domestic political parties prepare for a new phase of political engagement ahead of upcoming party activities.
In Pictures, Chairman Kahin welcomed Kulmiye party supporters to Hargeisa
Prepared By:
Horn Post Staff
HARGEISA, Somaliland
