Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – Former United States Ambassador to Somalia, Larry André, has stated that the possibility of U.S. recognition of Somaliland cannot be ruled out, especially given the rising support from influential American political figures advocating for the cause.
Speaking on the subject, Ambassador André recalled that he was once asked whether the Trump administration could move to formally recognize Somaliland. His response indicated that such a development was not far-fetched.
“It can happen. There are prominent Republican leaders, well-known for shaping American foreign policy, who are actively pushing for the recognition of Somaliland,” André noted.
His remarks followed the publication of a recent article in which he expressed his personal opposition to recognizing Somaliland as an independent state. He acknowledged that the recognition debate is complex and highly political, but admitted that the weight of high-level lobbying in Washington could potentially influence future U.S. policy decisions.
Internal Divisions and the Question of Unity
While recognition efforts are gaining international momentum, Ambassador André also emphasized that the situation within Somaliland itself is not entirely unanimous. He cited regions like Las Anod (Lasaan) where parts of the local population have expressed a desire to remain united with Somalia. According to André, meaningful dialogue between Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia cannot take place as long as Somaliland’s position remains solely focused on secession and full independence.
Ongoing Diplomatic Push for Recognition
Somaliland’s leadership, particularly President Muse Bihi Abdi, has remained confident that formal international recognition will be achieved during his tenure. His government continues to strengthen diplomatic efforts abroad, especially in the United States, where a growing number of lawmakers have shown support for Somaliland’s case.
In addition to U.S. political backing, the United Kingdom has seen similar movements. The British Parliament recently established a group called the Friends of Somaliland, which aims to explore and promote recognition of Somaliland as an independent entity.
Strong Opposition from the Somali Federal Government
In response to these developments, the Federal Government of Somalia has reiterated its strong opposition to any move toward recognition. Somali Ambassador to the United States, Hassan Dahir, released a statement yesterday warning that granting recognition to Somaliland would not bring lasting peace to the region’s long-standing conflicts. He emphasized that such a move would only deepen divisions and potentially destabilize the fragile progress made in Somalia’s state-building efforts.
Somaliland’s Long Struggle for Recognition
Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Siad Barre’s regime. Since then, it has maintained relative peace and democratic governance, operating with its own government, military, and currency. However, despite its internal stability and functioning institutions, it remains unrecognized by any country as a sovereign state.
Now, with renewed diplomatic momentum and mounting pressure from influential political actors in both the U.S. and the U.K., Somaliland’s decades-long quest for recognition may be entering a new chapter.