Hargeysa(Mogadishu24)-Hilac Party leader, Prof. Ahmed Ismail Samatar, has expressed deep concerns about the situation in Somaliland, specifically addressing the administration’s constitution and its pursuit of recognition.

The professor mentioned the adverse impacts of the conflicts and the high cost of living, which have led to an escalating poverty rate.

“We are in a difficult situation when the unity and security of the country are under threat. We are facing hardships as a result of the high cost of living, which has significantly affected traders and businesspeople due to inflation, and increased the poverty rate,” said Prof. Samatar.

He pointed out that the challenges in Somaliland have also affected the government’s institutions, causing them to lose functionality and independence.

“The independence of the government’s institutions has been compromised, affecting the people of Somaliland across all regions. This dysfunctionality extends to institutions such as the Judiciary, both levels of the parliament, investigative agencies, and even the presidential palace,” added Prof. Samatar.

Prof. Samatar emphasized that the huge impacts of these challenges, such as conflicts in various parts of the country and political divisions, have hindered Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition.

“Because of these challenges, our quest for international recognition has been hindered. It has become difficult to achieve as it is no longer a topic of discussion. Somaliland’s Pursuit for International Recognition Is on the Verge of Collapse and this is a serious matter that needs our attention,” he said.

“The constitution is a fundamental pillar of our progress as a country, and it should be operationalized as soon as possible. For now, the constitution should be reviewed, and amendments should be made in areas that require rectification,” he added.

The professor highlighted the absence of essential basic services for the people of Somaliland, including access to clean water and improved housing. He further accused the government of failing to fulfil its responsibilities in providing these crucial services to its citizens.

Dr. Ahmed Ismail Samatar is a prominent Somaliland politician and is currently the James Wallace Professor and Dean of the Institute for Global Citizenship at Macalester College. 

He has previously lectured at numerous universities and colleges, including Cornell, Harvard, Iowa, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Somali National University, Toronto, the University of Amsterdam, York, the University of Otago, and Wellesley College.