HARGEISA (SD) – The President of the Republic of Somaliland HE Muse Bihi Abdi has invited all members of the House of Representatives to the State House.

The invitation to honor the members of the House of Representatives was also attended by most of the Executive branch led by the President, the Chairman of the Supreme Court, the Speaker of the House of Elders, military officers, the Hargeisa Mayor and senior staff of the House of Representatives.

President Muse Bihi Abdi, who addressed the gathering at the Presidential Palace, only expressed his gratitude for the MPs, adding that he should have invited the lawmakers much earlier.

Speaker of the Somaliland House of Representatives Abdirizak Khalif, who also addressed the gathering, said President Bihi governs the House.

” As we all know the lawmakers are from the national parties, ideas could be different, but when it comes to the national issues we are one: Said the Speaker.

Adding “The House of Representatives is here to hold the government accountable, this is a governing body, not an opposition council ruled by Abdirizak Khalif, but a national body ruled by the president.”

The Speaker’s remarks were seen as a blow to Somaliland’s democratic hopes and the role of the House he leads.

On the other hand, several lawmakers refused to attend the president’s invitation, calling it an irresponsible move.

“Personally, I suggested that the meeting between the President and the MPs be canceled due to the drought situation in the country. Every lawmaker should go back to his constituency with water. Let the President share his suggestions with the Speaker of the House. ” said Barkhad Batun.