By: Mohamed Hassan Mohamed (Xareed)
In recent years, the Somali Region of Ethiopia has witnessed a growing realization among its political actors that division and fragmentation weaken the capacity of the region to influence the broader federal political landscape. Historically, Somali political parties often pursued narrow agendas, competing against one another in ways that diluted the collective voice of their people. This fragmented approach left the Somali Region marginalized in Addis Ababa, unable to secure the share of federal decision-making power that corresponds to its population, resources, and strategic importance. Today, however, a new direction is emerging. Somali regional political parties are beginning to embrace the principles of unity, integrity, and shared ambition as the only viable path toward meaningful representation at the federal level.
The Ethiopian federal system rewards regions that display cohesion and act with one voice. Federal politics, by its very nature, tends to prioritize blocs that demonstrate internal harmony and consistent cooperation. Regions such as Oromia and Amhara have shown how strong coalitions and unified agendas can translate into real influence within Addis Ababa’s corridors of power. For the Somali Region, the lesson is clear: when political parties cooperate, collaborate, and stand together in oneness and wholeness, they gain the capacity to shape federal policy, demand equitable resource allocation, and negotiate from a position of strength. Integrity and cohesion, therefore, are not just moral ideals but strategic necessities for a region long sidelined in the political affairs of Ethiopia.
The call for unity does not mean suppressing diversity or silencing differences of opinion. Instead, it requires Somali political leaders to rise above personal ambitions and narrow interests in pursuit of a shared, long-term vision. Such a vision must place the well-being of the Somali people at its center, focusing on critical priorities like infrastructure development, pastoralist resilience, economic opportunity, education, and healthcare. A unified ambition means developing common goals that every party can support, regardless of ideological variations. When parties align around such priorities, they present themselves not as competitors undermining one another, but as partners working for the collective progress of the Somali Region within Ethiopia’s federal framework.
The benefits of this unified approach extend beyond federal negotiations. At the regional level, cohesion among political parties fosters stability, reduces conflict, and builds trust among citizens. Communities gain confidence when they see their leaders working together with integrity and accountability rather than engaging in endless rivalries. Unity also strengthens the Somali Region’s bargaining power with neighboring regions and external partners, positioning it as a credible and reliable entity capable of managing resources, implementing projects, and delivering results. In short, a united Somali political front creates the foundation for both regional development and federal influence.
When Somali political parties adopt coalition, harmony, and undividedness as guiding principles, they will be able to share in the highest levels of Ethiopia’s federal administration in Addis Ababa. This would mean not only having a louder voice in parliamentary debates and policy-making processes but also occupying key leadership positions in federal ministries, commissions, and agencies. Such roles would allow Somali leaders to channel federal resources toward their people’s needs and ensure that the region’s concerns are systematically integrated into national planning. In this way, Somali unity becomes a vehicle through which the aspirations of millions can be translated into tangible improvements in their daily lives.
In conclusion, the Somali Region stands at a historic turning point. The era of fragmentation and disunity has shown its limitations, leaving the region politically weak and underrepresented at the federal level. By contrast, the path of integrity, unity, and shared ambition offers a chance to transform the Somali Region into a respected and influential player in Ethiopia’s federal system. Through coalition, collaboration, and cohesion, Somali political parties can finally secure their rightful place in Addis Ababa, ensuring that their people’s voices are heard and their development priorities addressed. The task ahead is challenging, but the opportunity is immense: unity is not only possible but essential for a brighter and more equitable future for the Somali people within Ethiopia.
Mohamed is based in Jigjiga, Somali Region, He is Admas University Alumnus. Somaliland, Hargeisa Branch.He is an MBA holder, and wrote hundreds of scholarly articles, essays and conducted research. He is a small business owner and university lecturer. He can be reached at: Xareedmo45@gmail.com
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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