ALLEGIANCE TO THE SOMALI UNITY
The recent announcement made by the elders of the Issa and Gadabursi communities of Awdal declaring their rapture from Somaliland and asserting that the Awdal region is no longer a part of the secession idea held by the SNM regime for the past 33 years marks a significant development in the ongoing struggle for political stability and unity in Somalia. After three decades of endless promises and futile attempts at reconciliation, the decision to break away from Somaliland signifies a decisive turning point in the political landscape of the region.
The roots of the secessionist movement in Somaliland can be traced back to the aftermath of the collapse of the central government in Mogadishu in 1991. In the absence of a functioning central authority, various warring factions, including the SNM (Isaak), came together to establish a provincial administration to avoid further bloodshed and to pave the way for reconciliation among the different factions. However, the SNM seized the opportunity to declare secession and asserted control over the Somaliland region, much to the dismay of other community leaders and delegates present at the meeting.
The decision to break away from Somaliland was not taken lightly by the Issa and Gadabursi communities, who had been, unwillingly, part of the secessionist administration for over three decades. The announcement made by the elders reflects a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current state of governance in tribal dominared Somaliland, and characterized by bad governance, unjust distribution of wealth, posisions, representation, and resources, In addition, the unilateral decision to invite Ethiopia to establish military bases in the Awdal region further fueled resentment among the Issa and Gadabursi communities, prompting them to take action in favor of Somali unity.
The history of the secession movement in Somaliland has been marred by conflict and division, with the region experiencing devastating civil wars and tribal feuds that have claimed the lives of thousands of people. The split within the Isaak community in 1994, which led to a violent conflict between two tribal factions of the SNM, highlighted the deep-rooted divisions and grievances that have plagued the region for decades. The decision of the Issa and Gadabursi communities to break away from Somaliland is a reflection of the desire for peace, justice, and unity among the different Somali communities.
The path to achieving political stability and unity in Somalia is fraught with challenges and obstacles, but the decision of the Issa and Gadabursi communities to break away from Somaliland represents a bold step towards overcoming these challenges. By asserting their independence and declaring their allegiance to the ideals of Somali unity, as precedented by the Harti, the Issa and Gadabursi communities have set to follow Harti communities in the region.. The road ahead may be difficult, but with determination, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace and reconciliation, the people of Somalia can overcome their differences and build a more prosperous and unified future.
In conclusion, the decision of the elders of the Issa and Gadabursi communities to break away from Somaliland and declare their allegiance to the ideals of Somali unity is a significant development in the political landscape of the region. The move reflects a deep-seated desire for peace, justice, and unity among the different Somali communities and signals a new chapter in the ongoing struggle for political stability and reconciliation in Somalia. By taking this bold step, the Issa and Gadabursi communities have shown that they are committed to building a brighter future for themselves and for the entire nation.
Awdal Elder’s declaration
Press conference
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