Hargeisa May 18, 2023 (SD) – The outgoing President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Muse Bihi Abdi, spoke at the commemoration of the 32nd anniversary of Somaliland’s independence, on May 18th. The event was celebrated around Somaliland and in the capital Hargeisa, where President Bihi was joined by the Vice President of Somaliland, Mr. Abdirahman Abdullahi Ismail (Saylici), the Chairman of the House of Elders, the Chief Justice, the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, former vice presidents, politicians, diplomats, and various other dignitaries representing partner countries and international organizations.

The celebrations included military parades and displays showcasing the country’s armed forces and military capabilities, as well as the achievements made by government institutions, local administrations, and the enclave’s Business community.

The diverse military forces, including the Army, Commandos, Navy, Air Force, and Police, demonstrated their capabilities and received praise from the President. The armed forces also showcased military vehicles and other important equipment that serve the interests of the Republic of Somaliland.

The outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi delivered a fiery speech, addressing various issues facing the unrecognized enclave, including the political pressures from the International Community to end the violence in Las Anod and to hold the overdue presidential election.

Bihi also commented on the ongoing territorial disputes between the Somaliland government and the authorities of Puntland, emphasizing that the nation does not accept any encroachment on its territory or attempts to provoke conflict.

The outgoing President expressed his hope that the conflict would be resolved without any further bloodshed, saying, “”To those fooling around, the war will continue as long as the enemy is in Somaliland. We will liberate the country no matter what, we will not oppress anyone, we will not accuse anyone,”

Muse Bihi highlighted the importance of elections and the democratic process in the country, dismissing the international community’s efforts to facilitate democratic elections in Somaliland. He stated, “I am here because of elections and what the people have chosen and the laws that govern us. I will stay based on what the people have agreed upon, and those who will come after us will be elected by the people. The international community can not force us to hold elections, nor does it impose its laws on us, they can keep their funds and political interference. Anyone who believes the west can force us is a dummy.”