Hargeisa(Mogadishu24)-The breakaway republic of Somaliland has strongly condemned remarks made by Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, regarding to foreign diplomats observing Somaliland’s elections in November 13.

Somaliland dismissed Fiqi’s comments as “unfounded and inflammatory,” emphasizing its sovereignty and commitment to democratic values.

“The Government of the Republic of Somaliland strongly refutes the unfounded and inflammatory comments made by the so-called ‘Foreign Minister’ of the Mogadishu administration regarding Somaliland’s free elections and the democratic process,” the statement read.

Somaliland accused Fiqi of hostility toward its people and lack of understanding of Somaliland’s dedication to peace and stability.

Somaliland also criticized Fiqi’s comments on foreign diplomats, particularly his targeting of international observers who praised Somaliland’s electoral process.

“His threat towards international diplomats—who rightly praised the Somaliland electoral process—is undiplomatic and profoundly ignorant,” the statement continued. It emphasized that Somaliland operates independently and does not seek validation from Somalia’s government.

This response comes after Foreign Minister Fiqi expressed discontent with diplomats who observed Somaliland’s elections on November 13, where 1.2 million voters peacefully cast their ballots. Fiqi accused some diplomats of undermining Somalia’s sovereignty by referring to Somaliland as a country.

The Danish Ambassador to Somalia, Steen Sonne Andersen, was among the diplomats Fiqi criticized. Andersen and other EU diplomats observed polling stations across Somaliland and commended the electoral commission for conducting a peaceful and transparent process.

The Danish Ambassador and Somalia’s Foreign Minister are scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss the diplomatic fallout.

Somaliland reiterated its commitment to democracy and self-governance. “The people of Somaliland will continue to flourish, constructing a democratic and peaceful society, independent of others’ distractions and disruptions,” the statement concluded.

The final results of Somaliland’s elections are expected to be announced on Wednesday, marking another milestone in its democratic journey.