HARGEISA – (SLpost)- The Somaliland president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahe delivered a wide-ranging and politically significant address during celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of Somaliland’s restoration of independence on May 18, describing this year’s commemoration as “historic” following Somaliland’s international recognition.
Speaking before thousands gathered at the main celebration spot in Hargeisa, President Cirro congratulated the people of Somaliland on what he described as a day symbolizing “struggle, unity, resilience, and national triumph.”
The annual May 18 celebration commemorates Somaliland’s 1991 declaration restoring its sovereignty following the collapse of the Somali Republic. However, this year’s event carried unprecedented political significance after Somaliland secured the first international recognition from Israel, a development the President described as the culmination of decades of perseverance and state-building efforts.
“This year’s 18-May celebration carries historic weight unlike previous anniversaries because Somaliland marks this occasion as a recognized member of the international community,” President Cirro said during his address.
Sovereignty “Non-Negotiable”
In one of the strongest remarks of his speech, President Cirro emphasized that Somaliland’s sovereignty is the result of the people’s democratic choice and is not open to negotiation or reversal.
He warned against any attempts to impose political arrangements that contradict “the political realities and the will of the Somaliland people,” arguing that past regional experiences have demonstrated the failure of forced political unions.
“The world has learned that societies and political systems that do not align cannot be compelled into unity,” he stated.
The President called on the international community to support pathways based on peace, democracy, and the right of nations to determine their own future, presenting Somaliland as a model of stability and democratic governance in the Horn of Africa.
Praise for Public Unity and Security Forces
President Cirro also praised Somaliland citizens for their role in preserving peace, strengthening democratic institutions, and maintaining national cohesion over the past three decades.
He said the unity and resilience of Somaliland’s population formed the foundation of the country’s achievements and international standing.
The President further commended Somaliland’s security forces, which staged military parades, ceremonial drills, and displays of modern military equipment during the celebrations.
He described the armed forces as a critical pillar in safeguarding national security, protecting Somaliland’s sovereignty, and reinforcing state stability.
A Speech Reflecting a New Political Era
Political observers described the speech as reflecting what many view as a new political chapter following international recognition.
In his address, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi placed strong emphasis on efforts to reinforce Somaliland’s sovereignty, broaden international cooperation and deepen diplomatic engagement with global partners. The speech also highlighted the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, accelerating economic growth and safeguarding Somaliland’s national interests amid evolving regional and international dynamics.
This year’s 18 May celebrations drew large crowds across Somaliland, while members of the Somaliland diaspora also held events to mark the anniversary. Supporters described the occasion as an important moment reflecting Somaliland’s continued efforts to strengthen its political and international standing.
This year’s national day celebration, as usual, drew large crowds across Somaliland, while members of the Somaliland diaspora also held events to mark the anniversary. The commemorations also attracted growing international attention, with Somaliland receiving increased regional and global focus during the celebrations as authorities and supporters sought to showcase the country’s political stability, democratic credentials and aspirations for wider international engagement and recognition.
SOURCE: Somalilandpost.news
