HARGEISA (SD) -Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Cali Marehan, responded to the statements made by Somalia’s government, stating that the Somali government is displeased with the democratic progress that Somaliland has achieved over many years, most recently exemplified by the elections held on the 13th of this month.

The minister described the statements from the federal government as indicative of their envy and resentment towards Somaliland’s progress.

“These governments he criticizes are the ones that, without governing anywhere themselves, recognize Somaliland and acknowledge the democracy and positive developments taking place here without needing permission from him,” said Minister Cali Marehan.

He also specifically thanked international representatives who commended the elections in Somaliland and praised the public for the mature manner in which the election was conducted. The back and forth between Mogadishu and Hargeisa are seen to be counter-productive as they relate to hopes of reconciliation with the projected winner of the Presidential Election.