Most people would agree that if one wants to improve one’s performance in a particular field one would have to learn from those who have excelled in that field. That is common sense. When it comes to Somali politics, most observers would agree that Somaliland has done a better job in managing its affairs than Somalia. Therefore, one would expect Somalia’s politicians to learn from Somaliland. Apparently, UDUB parliamentarians believe the opposite, and instead of Somalia’s politicians learning from Somaliland, they think Somaliland’s politicians should imitate those of Somalia. Why are we saying this? Because the behavior of UDUB parliamentarians on Aug. 24, 2009 is so similar to the infamous action of Somalia’s parliamentarians at Nairobi’s Grand Regency Hotel on March 17, 2005. The only thing missing from what UDUB parliamentarians did was the fist-fight, and the only reason the fist-fight did not take place and blood did not flow on the floor of parliament was due to the self-restraint and discipline of the opposition and leaders of parliament.
In addition to the similarity between the conduct of UDUB members and the Mbagathi group, the other thing that stands out about the actions of UDUB members is that it did not happen spontaneously but was pre-planned. One can tell this from the fact that as soon as the speaker of parliament said they had the required quorum, UDUB members started yelling, screaming, and banging on their desks. Not only that, but some of them left their seats, rushed towards the parliamentary leaders and threatened them with violence. They also broke chairs and damaged electronic equipments. Their aim was clearly to create chaos and prevent parliament from doing the people’s work. The worst culprits were: Abdirahman Mohamed Jama (Aw-Xoog), Maxamed Baaruud Shide, Aadan X. Diiriye (Sanqoole), Hussein Ismail Yusuf, Ahmed Hassan Adan (Weyso-Cadde), and Ali X. Mohamed Muse.
What UDUB parliamentarians did is not only a disgrace to the country, but is also a serious crime. The three day suspension mentioned by Mr Axmed Diiriye (Nacnac) is not enough. The punishment must be commensurate with the crime, and bringing Somaliland to the level of Somalia is a huge and unforgivable crime.



 

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