Hargeisa(Mogadishu24)-The self-declared Republic of Somaliland has strongly rejected today’s statements by the Federal Government of Somalia, dismissing them as attempts to “take credit” for Somaliland’s 34 years of democratic achievements.

In a pointed statement, Somaliland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the region’s history of nine free and fair elections—presidential, parliamentary, local council, and referendum—since 2003, marking peaceful transitions of power under a “one person, one vote” framework.

Somaliland’s response came shortly after Somalia’s Ministry of Interior announced it was “closely following” Somaliland’s upcoming elections, planned for November 13.

The elections, which will be independently managed by Somaliland, have drawn attention from over 90 international observers, a testament to Somaliland’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

As Somaliland prepares for its upcoming elections, officials reiterated their dedication to democratic governance, expressing confidence in their unique position as a democratic entity in the Horn of Africa and urging Somalia to respect its sovereignty.