Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad
Somaliland
The current situation unfolding in Somalia should be treated as a matter of urgent international concern. It is deeply troubling that significant elements within the international community, despite decades of political, financial, and security engagement, appear increasingly reluctant to confront the alarming realities emerging on the ground. Somalia today faces growing institutional fragility, deep political polarization, and increasing uncertainty regarding the future direction of the state. Ignoring these warning signs risks repeating the failures of the past.
Many observers and critics argue that Somalia is entering a dangerous and decisive phase in its political trajectory. Weak governance structures, persistent disputes among political stakeholders, and contested political decisions are steadily eroding public confidence and weakening national cohesion. The international community cannot continue relying on temporary solutions while avoiding the deeper structural crises threatening the country’s long-term stability. Failure to address these challenges may accelerate instability and further weaken already fragile institutions.
Concerns have increasingly been raised regarding the leadership and political approach of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Critics contend that the current administration has adopted an increasingly authoritarian style of governance rather than pursuing inclusive measures aimed at reducing political divisions. They argue that several policy decisions have intensified tensions among federal stakeholders and regional actors, contributing to growing political uncertainty. From this perspective, Somalia appears to be entering a period where mistrust is expanding rather than narrowing, creating conditions that could contribute to deeper fragmentation and prolonged political instability.
The international community carries a serious responsibility. Continued silence or passive observation may increasingly be interpreted as acceptance of a deteriorating reality. History repeatedly demonstrates that states experiencing prolonged political crises can eventually reach a point where institutional recovery becomes significantly more difficult and far more costly. Preventive engagement is often less expensive and more effective than managing crises after collapse.
Within this broader debate, many supporters of Somaliland argue that their case deserves immediate and serious international consideration. They maintain that Somaliland has demonstrated relative peace, functioning institutions, electoral processes, and internal stability over many years. Advocates argue that international recognition could contribute to a clearer political framework in the Horn of Africa and potentially create conditions that encourage broader stability and institutional development throughout the region.
At the same time, questions are increasingly being raised regarding the role of external actors in Somalia. The Turkish government, like Ethiopia, should carefully reassess its involvement in Somalia amid ongoing disputes among opposition groups, federal member states, and tensions surrounding the federal political system. Somalia continues to face profound political divisions and internal challenges, and foreign actors should avoid actions that risk complicating an already fragile political environment. Greater emphasis should be placed on supporting inclusive dialogue, stability, and Somali-led solutions rather than becoming entangled in internal political rivalries.
The Horn of Africa is already navigating an increasingly complex environment shaped by geopolitical competition, security challenges, and shifting regional alliances. The consequences of strategic miscalculations could be severe. The international community must reassess long-standing assumptions, engage honestly with realities on the ground, and adopt policies based on long-term stability rather than short-term political convenience. The stakes now extend far beyond Somalia itself; they carry significant implications for the future security and stability of the entire region.
Engineer Abdi Ali Barkhad is a senior consultant and political analyst
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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