Somaliland and the latest political issues...

By Ahmed Kheyre, London, UK  

Sir,

I have found it amusing that every time a political, economic or a social issue occurs in Somaliland, some 'unnamed" diplomat says, and I quote "This event could hinder Somaliland's efforts for international recognition".  On the one hand, as a Somalilander, I am honoured that my country is held to a high level of accountability, but on the other hand, I am perturbed that all of Somaliland's efforts are to be judged one incident. Talk about a double standard. 

This situation regarding the arrest of Dr.Gaboose, Inj. Maxamed Xaashi and Mr.Caydiid should be settled at the judicial level. It is imperative that due process should be followed.

The accused have been asked to appear before a court, they did so, and the court remanded them for seven days. Not even all the queen's counsel in the inner courts of London will argue with that procedure. They weren't beaten Mugabe "style", they weren't massacred on a deserted beach, they were not put before a military tribunal with a soldier in the background polishing the execution stake. This is Somaliland, not some banana republic.

These politicians are charged with bringing "instability to Somaliland with their political actions which contravene the Somaliland constitution". In Somaliland, everyone will have their day in court. Whether the court rules in favour of the government or not, is something we all have to wait and see. The real question, is not whether the government is right or wrong, whether these politicians are guilty or not, whether some people will support or oppose these events. No, the real challenge is whether Somaliland justice will follow due process and whether all parties will be satisfied with the decision.

After, the last Presidential election was decided by less than 80 votes and to the credit of all concerned the decision of the supreme court was accepted. I anticipate a similar scenario  which will once again show the political maturity of Somaliland and its people.

So, all those "unnamed" diplomats, please don't judge Somaliland on the latest political or social intrigue, but look at the bigger picture. Somaliland favours the broadminded analysis over the narrow minded opinion.

Sincerely,

Ahmed Kheyre

London , UK    

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