Cairo (KAAB TV) – In a recent exclusive interview, Fahad Yassin Haji Dahir, the former commander of the Somali Intelligence Agency, discussed the relationship between Somaliland and Somalia in the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Fahad sharply criticized the UAE government for its involvement with Somaliland’s authorities, claiming that the UAE has become a central figure in the political conflicts between Somali leaders. He cited examples of tensions between leaders such as Hassan Sheikh, Deni, and Ahmed Madobe.
“Ahmed Madobe and Deni do not greet each other, and neither do Hassan and Irro, yet all of them look to Dubai as their center of influence. It is surprising that President Hassan has not addressed the role the UAE has played in Somaliland,” Fahad stated.
Furthermore, Fahad commented on a recent international conference that Somaliland was invited to, noting that President Hassan Sheikh’s seat was instead occupied by President Irro, who represented Somaliland. He expressed frustration with the UAE’s influence, saying, “The UAE’s actions were more significant than those of the Somaliland president, as they placed President Irro in the seat that should have been occupied by Hassan Sheikh.”
Lastly, Fahad reflected on his decision to avoid getting involved in Somali politics, revealing that before entering the political arena, he consulted with Somali scholars, including Sheikh Mustafa Haji Ismail. “He advised me against getting involved in Somali politics at this time, and he was right,” Fahad concluded.