Somalilanders in Oslo call on the world to recognise Somaliland last Thursday

This week is the 25th anniversary of the first mass uprising of Somalilanders against dictator Siyad Barre and his regime in Somalia.

Coinciding with this, Euro-Somalilanders in Oslo, Norway, have staged an important demonstration into pushing the Norwegian Government to recognize the Republic of Somaliland.

Ex British Protectorate, Somaliland gained its independence on June 26, 1960 and soon united with the Italian colony, Somalia, to form the Greater Somalia. The Republic of Somaliland became independent de facto on May 18, 1991 after the civil war (1988-1991) which opposed the clans of the South and those of the North.

The Republic of Somaliland democratic endeavors with the adoption of a constitution, a currency and democratic elections have yet not been recognized by the international community.

The demonstration took place in the footsteps of the Norwegian Parliament. The demonstration started at 12.30 pm - Norwegian time and continued for several hours.

Somalilanders in Oslo call on the world to recognise Somaliland last Thursday

This demonstration aimed at bringing more awareness to Norwegian authorities into supporting the democratic achievements of the Republic of Somaliland. Norwegian Organizations have participated alongside its Somalilander community for the reconstruction of the country and so continue to develop humanitarian actions for Somaliland population, therefore it is now recommended to the Government of Norway to put in place more diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Republic of Somaliland.

A few hundred Somalilanders waving their flag and banners were chanting slogans in front of Parliament house footsteps in Oslo. They began their match to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were they presented the petition and documents to the Norwegian Government.

This demonstration was a solidarity to the people and government of the Republic of Somaliland, their achievements and focused on the acknowledgment and recognition for their land.

SOMALILAND SOCIETY EUROPE (SSE)

SSE NORWAY

Contacts

Vice-President SSE

Fatia Muse nobada@gmail.com

Communication Officer SSE

Maryan Ibrahim Abdi   maryan.ibrahim@googlemail.com

Source: Somaliland Times