NAIROBI (KAAB TV) — The President of Somaliland, Ahmed Mohamed “Irro”, has inaugurated a newly constructed building intended to house Somaliland’s diplomatic office in Kenya. However, the Kenyan government has halted the formal opening of the office, which was scheduled for May 26.
Originally functioning as a liaison office, the Somaliland representation in Kenya had been upgraded to the “Mission of the Republic of Somaliland in Kenya” — a designation that would have significantly elevated its diplomatic status. The Kenyan government, however, stopped the official opening, reinforcing its stance on Somali territorial integrity.
Sources indicate that the Kenyan government’s decision to halt the mission’s inauguration came shortly after President Irro’s visit to Nairobi. The following day, May 27, the Kenyan authorities reportedly reiterated their support for Somalia’s unity and declined to endorse the elevated diplomatic status of the Somaliland mission.
The previous Somaliland liaison office primarily focused on cultural exchanges, trade cooperation, and limited consular services. The proposed mission status would have introduced formal political engagement, signaling a shift in Kenya’s posture — a move that appears to have been reversed under pressure from Somalia.
President Irro’s visit has sparked controversy. The opposition party, Kulmiye, criticized the trip, claiming that it lacked an official invitation from Kenyan President William Ruto. Kulmiye labeled the visit a diplomatic misstep that may have undermined Somaliland’s credibility.
Despite this, Kenyan officials have indicated that relations with Somaliland remain important for regional peace and economic stability. Nonetheless, Kenya appears to have recalibrated its position, especially in light of the strained ties with Somalia following its reception of former Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi — a move that provoked strong objections from the Federal Government of Somalia.
Analysts believe that Kenya’s recent actions reflect an effort to repair its economic and political relationship with Mogadishu, reaffirming its official support for Somalia’s sovereignty.