Transcript
Somaliland’s Role in the
Stability of the Horn of
Africa
President Dahir Rayale Kahin of Somaliland
Friday 6 March 2009
Somaliland’s Role in the
Stability of the Horn of
Africa
President Dahir Rayale Kahin of Somaliland
Friday 6 March 2009
Chatham House is independent and owes no allegiance to government or to
any political body. It does not hold opinions of its own; the views
expressed in this text is the responsibility of the speaker. This document
is issued on the understanding that if any extract is used, the speakers and
Chatham House should be credited, preferably with the date of the event.
While Chatham House aims to provide an exact representation of the
speakers’ words we cannot take responsibility for any minor inaccuracies
which may appear.
any political body. It does not hold opinions of its own; the views
expressed in this text is the responsibility of the speaker. This document
is issued on the understanding that if any extract is used, the speakers and
Chatham House should be credited, preferably with the date of the event.
While Chatham House aims to provide an exact representation of the
speakers’ words we cannot take responsibility for any minor inaccuracies
which may appear.
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 2
President Dahir Rayale Kahin of Somaliland:
Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank you, for inviting me to Chatham House. I am
extremely delighted to be here with you this afternoon, to speak about the issue
of recognition of Somaliland among others.
I would like to emphasis the success story of Somaliland which by and large the
international community failed to recognize. A success story that is basically
considered as a miracle achievement attained by Somalilanders, without tangible
assistance.
Over the years our administration has taken a series of steps towards a nation
building process from 1991. This process was long and painstaking one, it
constituted reconciliation, demobilization and institutional processes through
homegrown bottom up approach. Which by and large became a model for nation
building.
It all started with an SNM (Somali National Movement) sponsored Conference
held in Burao in May 1991(widely known as Burao National Conference), which
set the stage for a new beginning – the restoration of Somaliland’s statehood in
1960. Then followed a National Conference in Borama in 1993, which was the
corner stone of an elected President and Vice President, the adoption of a
National Charter with a two-chamber parliament through an Electoral College.. A
model labeled as “Africa’s Best Kept Secret” by Professor Iqbal Jhazbay of South
Africa. It is worth noting during that process that there were hiccups and pitfalls
that slowed down the process, such as the conflict of 1995 to late 1996 that took
place amongst us, which cost both human lives and other resources. Somaliland
overcame this conflict through reconciliation. That was a learning experience.
Once again in 1997 an electoral college was assembled in Hargeisa, whereby a
President (Late President Egal) and myself as Vice President were elected.
In addition, a national constitution was adopted and was put for a national
referendum in 2001 with 97% approval. International observers described the
process as free, fair and consistent with international norms for referenda and
elections. In the meantime, back to back elections were held, i.e. local
Government, presidential, and Parliamentary elections which were characterized
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 2
President Dahir Rayale Kahin of Somaliland:
Mr. Chairman, I would like to thank you, for inviting me to Chatham House. I am
extremely delighted to be here with you this afternoon, to speak about the issue
of recognition of Somaliland among others.
I would like to emphasis the success story of Somaliland which by and large the
international community failed to recognize. A success story that is basically
considered as a miracle achievement attained by Somalilanders, without tangible
assistance.
Over the years our administration has taken a series of steps towards a nation
building process from 1991. This process was long and painstaking one, it
constituted reconciliation, demobilization and institutional processes through
homegrown bottom up approach. Which by and large became a model for nation
building.
It all started with an SNM (Somali National Movement) sponsored Conference
held in Burao in May 1991(widely known as Burao National Conference), which
set the stage for a new beginning – the restoration of Somaliland’s statehood in
1960. Then followed a National Conference in Borama in 1993, which was the
corner stone of an elected President and Vice President, the adoption of a
National Charter with a two-chamber parliament through an Electoral College.. A
model labeled as “Africa’s Best Kept Secret” by Professor Iqbal Jhazbay of South
Africa. It is worth noting during that process that there were hiccups and pitfalls
that slowed down the process, such as the conflict of 1995 to late 1996 that took
place amongst us, which cost both human lives and other resources. Somaliland
overcame this conflict through reconciliation. That was a learning experience.
Once again in 1997 an electoral college was assembled in Hargeisa, whereby a
President (Late President Egal) and myself as Vice President were elected.
In addition, a national constitution was adopted and was put for a national
referendum in 2001 with 97% approval. International observers described the
process as free, fair and consistent with international norms for referenda and
elections. In the meantime, back to back elections were held, i.e. local
Government, presidential, and Parliamentary elections which were characterized
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 3
by the international community as fair and transparent. It is worth noting once
again, that the aforementioned process was extremely challenging and terribly
costly.
Mr. Chairman, I would like to note, that our late President, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim
Egal, (may God bless his soul) passed away on May 2002 in South Africa. At the
time, the term of his office was to expire within nine months. Soon after the death
of late President, I was sworn in as the new President of the Republic of
Somaliland, according to the constitution of the Republic which states that the
vice President takes the seat of the President. This was the smoothest transition
that I can think of, after the nine months we held the first Local Government,
Presidential and Parliamentary elections successfully. During my tenure, my
administration made possible all of these back to back elections with
transparency and fairness.
All alone, Somaliland has contributed immensely to the regional security,
democratization process and a regional geopolitical stability. Today Somaliland
enjoys fantastic relationship with its neighbors.
Somaliland attained its independence from Great Britain 1960. As a result 35
countries recognized Somaliland’s statehood; these included Egypt, Ghana and
Libya among others.
As you are fully aware of the definition of a STATE is that it should have:
•�A permanent population;
•�A defined territory;
•�A functioning Government;
•�A capacity to enter into relations with other states.
My country fulfils all the above and thus qualifies for statehood.
Allow me to say something about our views towards Somalia. There are those
who believe that the recognition issue of Somaliland may adversely affect or
undermine the reconciliation efforts underway. I would argue that the opposite is
true. If Somaliland is recognized, those in Somalia would concentrate and spend
all their energies in finding a solution to their conflict, if Somaliland issue is taken
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 3
by the international community as fair and transparent. It is worth noting once
again, that the aforementioned process was extremely challenging and terribly
costly.
Mr. Chairman, I would like to note, that our late President, Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim
Egal, (may God bless his soul) passed away on May 2002 in South Africa. At the
time, the term of his office was to expire within nine months. Soon after the death
of late President, I was sworn in as the new President of the Republic of
Somaliland, according to the constitution of the Republic which states that the
vice President takes the seat of the President. This was the smoothest transition
that I can think of, after the nine months we held the first Local Government,
Presidential and Parliamentary elections successfully. During my tenure, my
administration made possible all of these back to back elections with
transparency and fairness.
All alone, Somaliland has contributed immensely to the regional security,
democratization process and a regional geopolitical stability. Today Somaliland
enjoys fantastic relationship with its neighbors.
Somaliland attained its independence from Great Britain 1960. As a result 35
countries recognized Somaliland’s statehood; these included Egypt, Ghana and
Libya among others.
As you are fully aware of the definition of a STATE is that it should have:
•�A permanent population;
•�A defined territory;
•�A functioning Government;
•�A capacity to enter into relations with other states.
My country fulfils all the above and thus qualifies for statehood.
Allow me to say something about our views towards Somalia. There are those
who believe that the recognition issue of Somaliland may adversely affect or
undermine the reconciliation efforts underway. I would argue that the opposite is
true. If Somaliland is recognized, those in Somalia would concentrate and spend
all their energies in finding a solution to their conflict, if Somaliland issue is taken
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 4
out of the equation. In addition, we believe that a sovereign and recognized
Somaliland could play a positive role in the reconciliation of Somalia.
Having seen the tremendous strides Somaliland has made despite enormous
odds, in the past 18 years, the world community padded Somalilanders on the
back, and told us time and again that we are on the right track, and that we
should continue on this course. The people of Somaliland have decided in their
2001 referendum to affirm their sovereignty thus challenging the world community
as to how long to stay on the course without recognition. It is about high time that
the international community gives serious attention to the achievements and the
success story of Somaliland.
If East-Timor, Eritrea, Serbia, Georgia, Kosovo to name a few were recognized
as sovereign nations, in the last 18 years, why not Somaliland? The fact of the
matter is that Somaliland is more populated than approximately 63 sovereign
countries including Luxemburg, the republic of Congo and Jamaica. Somaliland is
also larger in area than 85 sovereign nations, including Belgium, Jordan, and El-
Salvador.
Somaliland has built a society founded on peace, democracy, justice and the rule
of law. Our commitment to the peace and stability of the region includes
unreserved respect for the unity and territorial integrity of all our neighboring
states; expecting a reciprocal treatment from its neighbors.
Somaliland neither stands for secession, nor for the revision of Africa’s borders.
The people of Somaliland have made their choice loud and clear, independence
is an inalienable right.
Today, our economy and livelihood by and large depends entirely on the livestock
sector, a sector that is subject to extreme fluctuations depending on the domestic
weather conditions and external market situations, two vital variables not under
our control. We are working hard to diversify the economy, by exploiting our vast
untapped resources, like oil and gas, precious stones and the vast sea resources
over the coming years. We have already taken steps in that direction, we will
open on March 15 the first bid round for hydrocarbon concession, the bid round
will include eight concession blocks comprised of more than 89,624 square km of
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 4
out of the equation. In addition, we believe that a sovereign and recognized
Somaliland could play a positive role in the reconciliation of Somalia.
Having seen the tremendous strides Somaliland has made despite enormous
odds, in the past 18 years, the world community padded Somalilanders on the
back, and told us time and again that we are on the right track, and that we
should continue on this course. The people of Somaliland have decided in their
2001 referendum to affirm their sovereignty thus challenging the world community
as to how long to stay on the course without recognition. It is about high time that
the international community gives serious attention to the achievements and the
success story of Somaliland.
If East-Timor, Eritrea, Serbia, Georgia, Kosovo to name a few were recognized
as sovereign nations, in the last 18 years, why not Somaliland? The fact of the
matter is that Somaliland is more populated than approximately 63 sovereign
countries including Luxemburg, the republic of Congo and Jamaica. Somaliland is
also larger in area than 85 sovereign nations, including Belgium, Jordan, and El-
Salvador.
Somaliland has built a society founded on peace, democracy, justice and the rule
of law. Our commitment to the peace and stability of the region includes
unreserved respect for the unity and territorial integrity of all our neighboring
states; expecting a reciprocal treatment from its neighbors.
Somaliland neither stands for secession, nor for the revision of Africa’s borders.
The people of Somaliland have made their choice loud and clear, independence
is an inalienable right.
Today, our economy and livelihood by and large depends entirely on the livestock
sector, a sector that is subject to extreme fluctuations depending on the domestic
weather conditions and external market situations, two vital variables not under
our control. We are working hard to diversify the economy, by exploiting our vast
untapped resources, like oil and gas, precious stones and the vast sea resources
over the coming years. We have already taken steps in that direction, we will
open on March 15 the first bid round for hydrocarbon concession, the bid round
will include eight concession blocks comprised of more than 89,624 square km of
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 5
onshore and offshore, but our efforts are being hamstrung by the refusal of the
international community to invest in our country or deal with us bilaterally.
The Lack of de jure recognition hinders the development of Somaliland in terms
of foreign investment, infrastructure and the delivery of meaningful social
services, in that respect Somaliland earnestly, requests from member states of
international organizations to recognize Somaliland. Justice delayed is justice
denied.
Such a recognition will in no doubt allow the European Union, World Bank, the
International Monetary Fund, the United Nations, and the international community
in general, to deal with Somaliland on a bilateral basis and engage with us in the
developmental programmes that Somaliland has been wrongfully denied over the
years.
Understandably, there is an alarm here in London and elsewhere around the
world about the issue of failed states in these troubling times, and a desire to limit
any dangers they might pose to our collective security.
Trust me, we know all about failed states. Somaliland is not a failed state, but
rather, a capable, responsible and democratic state. However, we share the
same fears with you about failed states, and the threat they could pose to us all.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Likewise, the well-being and the success of other nations can equally have a
profound positive effect on all of us. The reality on the ground today is, in our
global village, what is good for one country is good for the other. The surest and
the most effective way of fighting terrorism is not by trying to cure the symptom of
the disease but the root cause of the malady by eradicating poverty, which
manifests itself in misery and frustration. It is easy to assume that a neglected
poverty-ridden society will be a congenial breeding ground for terrorists. The rich
and the poor countries must have a common agreement to fight and cooperate in
the interest of all mankind to eliminate poverty at the global level. Fighting human
misery and degradation of human life must be a common concern for everybody,
if we aspire a more peaceful life in this fast shrinking world of ours.
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 5
onshore and offshore, but our efforts are being hamstrung by the refusal of the
international community to invest in our country or deal with us bilaterally.
The Lack of de jure recognition hinders the development of Somaliland in terms
of foreign investment, infrastructure and the delivery of meaningful social
services, in that respect Somaliland earnestly, requests from member states of
international organizations to recognize Somaliland. Justice delayed is justice
denied.
Such a recognition will in no doubt allow the European Union, World Bank, the
International Monetary Fund, the United Nations, and the international community
in general, to deal with Somaliland on a bilateral basis and engage with us in the
developmental programmes that Somaliland has been wrongfully denied over the
years.
Understandably, there is an alarm here in London and elsewhere around the
world about the issue of failed states in these troubling times, and a desire to limit
any dangers they might pose to our collective security.
Trust me, we know all about failed states. Somaliland is not a failed state, but
rather, a capable, responsible and democratic state. However, we share the
same fears with you about failed states, and the threat they could pose to us all.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Likewise, the well-being and the success of other nations can equally have a
profound positive effect on all of us. The reality on the ground today is, in our
global village, what is good for one country is good for the other. The surest and
the most effective way of fighting terrorism is not by trying to cure the symptom of
the disease but the root cause of the malady by eradicating poverty, which
manifests itself in misery and frustration. It is easy to assume that a neglected
poverty-ridden society will be a congenial breeding ground for terrorists. The rich
and the poor countries must have a common agreement to fight and cooperate in
the interest of all mankind to eliminate poverty at the global level. Fighting human
misery and degradation of human life must be a common concern for everybody,
if we aspire a more peaceful life in this fast shrinking world of ours.
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 6
In the past Somaliland has been a victim of terrorism on numerous occasions..
Most recently, on October 29 2008, international terrorism struck the heart and
the soul of Somaliland. Using at least three suicide car bombs, violent extremists
attacked our innocent citizens, the symbols of our democracy, the United Nations
offices and the Ethiopian mission in Hargeisa the capital city of Somaliland. More
than twenty innocent people of different nationalities were killed in these
senseless terrorist attacks and dozens more were injured.
Despite our limited resources and capabilities, our government immediately
responded to help the victims and quickly took all the necessary measures to
thwart any further attempts to destabilize our peace and stability.
Clearly, the timing of these violent terrorist acts indicates that they were launched
in order to disrupt and derail our National Voter Registration Process, a key
democratic milestone achievement for our country. But the government and
people of Somaliland are determined not to allow the actions of these terrorist
thugs to defeat our infant democracy and stop our desire and aspiration for peace
and stability.
The tremendous outpouring of sympathy and solidarity from members of the
international community including the UK Government, our moment of national
tragedy heartened our government and people. For this, Somaliland is deeply
grateful. Indeed, our pain and tragedy is similar to the one inflicted upon the
innocent citizens of Washington DC, New York City, London, Madrid, Bali and
many other cities that fell victim to the violence perpetrated by the same violent
extremists.
It is, therefore, the conviction of my Government that the threat of international
terrorism should be addressed with full participation of all peace loving nations
through effective international, regional and sub-regional cooperation. Taking into
account compacting terrorism that the fight against terrorism takes place within
the framework of respect for all the principles enshrined in the Charter of the
United Nations, our government specifically appeals for the help and cooperation
of the international community.
Somaliland has fought piracy in its waters. There has not been one single piracy
case in the territorial waters of Somaliland. In fact, we have caught pirates at
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 6
In the past Somaliland has been a victim of terrorism on numerous occasions..
Most recently, on October 29 2008, international terrorism struck the heart and
the soul of Somaliland. Using at least three suicide car bombs, violent extremists
attacked our innocent citizens, the symbols of our democracy, the United Nations
offices and the Ethiopian mission in Hargeisa the capital city of Somaliland. More
than twenty innocent people of different nationalities were killed in these
senseless terrorist attacks and dozens more were injured.
Despite our limited resources and capabilities, our government immediately
responded to help the victims and quickly took all the necessary measures to
thwart any further attempts to destabilize our peace and stability.
Clearly, the timing of these violent terrorist acts indicates that they were launched
in order to disrupt and derail our National Voter Registration Process, a key
democratic milestone achievement for our country. But the government and
people of Somaliland are determined not to allow the actions of these terrorist
thugs to defeat our infant democracy and stop our desire and aspiration for peace
and stability.
The tremendous outpouring of sympathy and solidarity from members of the
international community including the UK Government, our moment of national
tragedy heartened our government and people. For this, Somaliland is deeply
grateful. Indeed, our pain and tragedy is similar to the one inflicted upon the
innocent citizens of Washington DC, New York City, London, Madrid, Bali and
many other cities that fell victim to the violence perpetrated by the same violent
extremists.
It is, therefore, the conviction of my Government that the threat of international
terrorism should be addressed with full participation of all peace loving nations
through effective international, regional and sub-regional cooperation. Taking into
account compacting terrorism that the fight against terrorism takes place within
the framework of respect for all the principles enshrined in the Charter of the
United Nations, our government specifically appeals for the help and cooperation
of the international community.
Somaliland has fought piracy in its waters. There has not been one single piracy
case in the territorial waters of Somaliland. In fact, we have caught pirates at
Transcript: President Dahir Rayale Kahin
http://www.chathamhouse.org.uk/ 7
least three times in Somaliland and tried them in our courts. They were
sentenced up to 20 years.
Now, we have finalized successfully, the Voter Registration in all six regions of
the Republic of Somaliland, thanks to the international community, donor
countries including Great Britain for their significant financial, material and moral
support to the democratization process in our country.
We planned to hold our second round of Presidential Elections on March 29.
However, the National Electoral Commission (NEC) has recently announced that
the elections would not be held as planned due to technical related matters..
In that regard, and after series of consultations with the political parties, the
National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced a delay of 91 days, which starts
on the March 2 2009, in other words elections will take place on May 31 of this
year.
least three times in Somaliland and tried them in our courts. They were
sentenced up to 20 years.
Now, we have finalized successfully, the Voter Registration in all six regions of
the Republic of Somaliland, thanks to the international community, donor
countries including Great Britain for their significant financial, material and moral
support to the democratization process in our country.
We planned to hold our second round of Presidential Elections on March 29.
However, the National Electoral Commission (NEC) has recently announced that
the elections would not be held as planned due to technical related matters..
In that regard, and after series of consultations with the political parties, the
National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced a delay of 91 days, which starts
on the March 2 2009, in other words elections will take place on May 31 of this
year.
As I stated earlier, my Government has successfully held series of expensive and
exhausting elections with fair and transparent results in the past.
Today, my Government expresses its full commitment in holding free and fair
elections on the announced date, once again. Additionally, I assure the
continuation of successful nation building process of the Republic of Somaliland.
Finally, I earnestly request from this distinguished audience to support the just
cause of Somaliland. With that note Ladies and Gentlemen, I sincerely thank all
of you for your attendance and patience.
May God bless you all.
http://samotalis.blogspot.com/
exhausting elections with fair and transparent results in the past.
Today, my Government expresses its full commitment in holding free and fair
elections on the announced date, once again. Additionally, I assure the
continuation of successful nation building process of the Republic of Somaliland.
Finally, I earnestly request from this distinguished audience to support the just
cause of Somaliland. With that note Ladies and Gentlemen, I sincerely thank all
of you for your attendance and patience.
May God bless you all.
http://samotalis.blogspot.com/
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