HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) The chairman of Somaliland’s opposition political party KAAH, Mahmoud Hashi Abdi, has said that the statehood of the Republic of Somaliland is founded on three fundamental pillars: modern governance, religion, and Somaliland’s traditional social structure rooted in clan-based customs.
Somaliland Opposition Leader Mahmoud Hashi Says Somaliland Statehood Built on Three Pillars of Governance, Religion and Traditional Structure.
Speaking during the official launch of a book authored by Ambassador Mohamed Barawani in Hargeisa on Saturday evening, Mahmoud Hashi emphasized that Somaliland’s political system and nation-building process have historically relied on a unique balance between modern state institutions, Islamic values, and the traditional structures that shape society.
The newly launched book focuses on Somaliland’s statehood journey and examines three core frameworks that define governance in Somaliland: state institutions, traditional culture, and Islam.
During his remarks, Mahmoud Hashi said Somaliland’s success in rebuilding peace and stability after decades of conflict was largely supported by the role played by traditional clan structures, stressing that clan identity itself is not inherently harmful to nationhood.
According to him, the real challenge facing Somaliland is not the clan system, but rather tribalism, political division, and short-sighted leadership that can undermine national unity and state development”
“The Republic of Somaliland’s statehood is built upon three pillars: modern governance, clan structure, and religion. Clan identity is not a threat to our nationhood or state-building process. What truly harms us is tribalism and narrow political thinking, and our state institutions must continue to evolve and grow stronger” Mahmoud Hashi said.
The KAAH opposition leader further stressed that Somaliland’s democratic institutions and government structures require continuous development in order to strengthen governance, improve public service delivery, and safeguard the country’s democratic progress.
Hashi also called for a review of Somaliland’s constitution, arguing that constitutional reforms are necessary to meet the country’s evolving governance needs.
“Our constitution needs to be reopened and reviewed. Former President Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal once initiated constitutional revisions, and Somaliland’s statehood today requires continued institutional growth and political development” he added.
His remarks come amid ongoing national discussions surrounding constitutional reform, democratic development, and the future direction of Somaliland’s governance system as the country continues to push for stronger institutions and greater international recognition.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
