HARGEISA, Somaliland — (Horn Post) Former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi has congratulated Somaliland citizens worldwide on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, while issuing a strong message urging the government to carefully assess rapidly changing geopolitical developments in the Middle East and their possible impact on Somaliland’s national interests.
In a statement released to mark June 26, 1960 — the day Somaliland gained independence from the British Empire, Muse Bihi described the historic anniversary as a defining moment in Somaliland’s political history and reflected on lessons from the country’s brief union with Somalia.
“I extend my congratulations to all citizens of the Republic of Somaliland, both at home and abroad, on the 66th anniversary of June 26, 1960, when Somaliland gained independence from British colonial rule and became the first of the five Somali territories to achieve sovereignty and international recognition,” Bihi said.
The former president said Somaliland’s decision to enter into union with Somalia on July 1, 1960, remains a historic political lesson that should never be forgotten.
“The political mistake we entered into on July 1, 1960, remains an unforgettable lesson for our nation,” he stated.
Muse Bihi Raises Concerns Over Middle East Conflict and Global Political Realignment.
Bihi also warned that growing instability in the Middle East could significantly reshape global political and economic structures, with direct consequences extending to the Horn of Africa.
According to the former president, ongoing tensions involving Iran and the United States could alter international security dynamics in ways that affect regional stability.
“The world today is facing major political changes and storms. The conflict in the Middle East has already produced negative effects reaching the Horn of Africa,” he said.
Bihi noted that outcomes from discussions between Iran and the United States could redefine security and economic structures globally, particularly in the Middle East and East Africa.
Former President Comments on Muslim Powers and Somaliland-Israel Relations Debate
The former Somaliland leader also pointed to the growing influence of major Muslim nations including Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, saying shifting alliances among these nations could reshape international diplomacy.
He further suggested that disagreements between the leaderships of the United States and Israel should not be underestimated.
“It is possible these states could move closer together again due to growing disagreements between the leadership of America and Israel, and the consequences should not be ignored,” he warned.
His remarks come amid increasing debate over Somaliland’s evolving diplomatic engagement with Israel following President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro’s recent visit to the country.
Muse Bihi Urges Somaliland Government to Protect National Interests
In the final part of his statement, Muse Bihi called on Somaliland’s government to carefully study international developments and ensure all foreign policy decisions remain aligned with Somaliland’s national interests.
“It is essential that the Somaliland government carefully studies the consequences of these global changes in order to avoid political miscalculations that could harm national interests,” he said.
The former president concluded by urging leaders to prioritize strategic decision-making during a period of increasing global uncertainty, emphasizing that Somaliland must avoid diplomatic mistakes while navigating an increasingly complex international environment.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
