Against All Odds: Somaliland’s Political Maturity Shines as a Beacon of Hope

[Deeq A.]

*Against All Odds: Somaliland’s Political Maturity Shines as a Beacon of Hope*

Somaliland, a nation born out of resilience and resolve, has defied expectations once again by achieving what many in the region and beyond thought impossible: demonstrating a profound level of national political maturity through democratic elections and a peaceful transfer of power. In a region fraught with the scars of political unrest, dictatorship, and instability, Somaliland has emerged as a shining example of what can be achieved when a people commit to governance that reflects their aspirations.

Somaliland’s journey has been anything but easy. Since its declaration of independence in 1991 following the brutal civil war that fractured Somalia, Somaliland has faced relentless challenges: internal struggles to build state institutions, an international community reluctant to recognize its sovereignty, and the absence of the financial aid that many other nations depend upon to bolster their democracies. Most recently, Somaliland successfully conducted its elections without international funding—an extraordinary feat that highlights its unwavering commitment to self-reliance and the principles of democracy.

Unlike many nations in the Horn of Africa, where authoritarianism often stifles progress, Somaliland has steadfastly pursued democratic governance. Its citizens have repeatedly gone to the polls to elect their leaders in free, fair, and peaceful elections, a rarity in a region where such practices are often marred by violence and corruption. This success is not merely a political achievement; it is a testament to the collective determination of a people who refuse to let their fate be defined by external limitations.

Somaliland’s perseverance is all the more remarkable given its geopolitical context. Encircled by countries gripped by political turmoil, extremist threats, and socio-economic instability, Somaliland has maintained peace within its borders, developed functional institutions, and nurtured a vibrant civil society. The contrast between Somaliland and many of its neighbors, could not be starker.

While others have struggled under the weight of authoritarianism and conflict, Somaliland has quietly yet resolutely built a model of governance that prioritizes the will of the people.

The international community’s refusal to recognize Somaliland as a sovereign state is not just a denial of its political achievements but also a missed opportunity to support a stabilizing force in a volatile region. Recognition would affirm the principles of self-determination and democracy that Somaliland exemplifies. More importantly, it would pave the way for economic growth, enhanced security cooperation, and stronger regional partnerships that benefit not only Somaliland but the entire Horn of Africa.

The people of Somaliland have not waited for validation from the outside world to prove their worth. They have created a nation built on principles of peace, democracy, and justice, overcoming daunting obstacles, including limited resources, international isolation, and the lingering shadow of one of the region’s longest periods of political unrest. These achievements should not only inspire East Africa but also serve as a lesson to the global community: a determined people, united in purpose, can overcome even the most insurmountable odds.

Somaliland has shown the world what it means to stand resolute in the face of adversity. It is time for the international community to recognize this exceptional nation—not just as a political entity but as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of self-governance. To ignore Somaliland’s achievements is to ignore the promise of what democracy can bring, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

By Zakaria Jama

Qaran News