I don't think this has anything to do with China but has everything to do with a nation's capacity to control its airspace.
If for instance Somaliland had an air force with the capability to intercept any aircraft, it could effectively close its airspace to international airlines and force ICAO to recognise it as a separate entity. If a capable air force cannot be found then at least Somaliland should develop the technical capability to jam all communications and GPS signals used by the airliners to turn its airspace into a black hole. This tactic can also force all airlines to take a long detour around Somaliland and thus have the same effect with ICAO.
So until Somaliland gets such capabilities which I doubt it will ever have, Mr Muuse and Co should explore other options.