SOMALILAND AND ETHIOPIA STALEMATE ON MoU IMPLIMETATION
The ongoing negotiations between delegates from Addis Ababa and Hargeisa have brought to light a complex and contentious issue surrounding the implementation of the controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Recent reports indicate that the two sides have reached a stalemate on key issues, particularly regarding the geographic area designated for an Ethiopian military base and the issue of recognition. This impasse has raised serious concerns about the potential for conflict and the role of Somaliland President Moussa Bihi in navigating this delicate situation.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the disagreement between the two sides stems from differing interpretations of the MoU. The Somaliland negotiating team has insisted that Ethiopia should first declare recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state before proceeding to discuss the specifics of the military base. In response, the Ethiopian party has maintained that recognition was not a part of the initial agreement and that Ethiopia had only pledged to support Somaliland’s diplomatic efforts for recognition at regional and international forums.
The crux of the disagreement lies in the advanced location of the military base, with the Somaliland team suggesting Bullahar as the site, upholding the revolt of the Awdal population who swear to fight, while Ethiopia has asserted that the base should be located in Zaila or Lughaya territories. This divergence of opinions has escalated tensions, with the Ethiopian team issuing threats and asserting its superiority over Awdalites of Issa and Gadabursi heritage.
President Moussa Bihi, as the leader of Somaliland, faces a difficult decision in this critical moment. The prospect of Ethiopia potentially invading Awdal territory to establish a military base poses a grave threat to the stability and security of the region. Awdalites have swore and made it clear that they will not stand idly while their homeland is infringed upon, and they view President Bihi and his tribal allies as enemies to be resisted at all costs. ‘Bihi must report to the side of his people to avoid the wrath of his creator and his people.”
The choices facing President Bihi are fraught with complexity and risk. On one hand, he must consider the political and diplomatic implications of acquiescing to Ethiopia’s demands, while on the other hand, he must be mindful of the fierce resistance that Awdalites, along with the Somali people, are prepared to mount in defense of their land. The potential for armed conflict looms large, and the repercussions of any decision made by President Bihi will have far-reaching consequences for the region.
In this volatile environment, it is imperative that all parties involved exercise wisdom and seek peaceful avenues for resolving the dispute within the limits of international law and order, The involvement of regional and international actors, including humanitarian organizations, may be crucial in mediating a solution that avoids bloodshed and upholds the principles of justice, good neibouhood, territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Ultimately, the fate of Awdal and the broader region rests in the hands of President Bihi and his negotiating team. The choices they make in the coming days and weeks will determine the course of events and shape the future of Somaliland and its relationship with the totality of Somali nationals. It is a defining moment for President Bihi, who must defend, despite past errors, the interests and demands of the Somali nation regardless of diffetences, borders and real politics, while striving to uphold the worries, rights and dignity of the Somali people,
In conclusion, the situation unfolding in Hargeisa and Addis Ababa underscores the complexity and challenges of diplomacy and negotiation in a fragile region. It is imperative that all parties approach the issue with a spirit of international law and order including UNCLOS and UNCITRAL, seeking to find legal ground and avoid the potentially catastrophic consequences of regional conflict. President Bihi and his team have a heavy burden to bear, but with wise leadership and a commitment to peace, a resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of all parties may yet be achieved if Ethiopia comes back to reason.