An independent, peaceful and Democratic Somaliland is the best way to sustain stability & development in the region says Amir Adan

An independent, peaceful and Democratic Somaliland is the best way to sustain stability & development in the region says Amir Adan, a young Swedish politician and Candidate for European Parliament for the Conservative Party Sweden.

Somalia is in total chaos, pirates prevalent in the sea and the country is in a civil war and violence. Chaos has been continuing since the Central Government collapsed for 18 years ago. Since that time Somalia had 16 peace conferences and the International Community are working hard to bring the different parties to come together and build peace, stability and good governance.

On 18 may 1991, Somaliland revoked the 1960 Act of Union with South Somalia, and declared Somaliland independent. Somaliland society and their leaders focused their limited resources and wisdom to build up Democratic Institutions through General Elections and sees today well organised compared to Somalia. There is free press, rule of law and respect for human rights. At the end of march 2009 there will be election for president. This is also another evidence of commitment and consolidation of the democratic way Somaliland have chosen. Somaliland is a model for a region that characterizes of violence and lack of democracy. It is very important that Somaliland people and their leaders continue their commitment and dedication to a nation building based on rule of law, freedom, democracy and market economy.

According to international experts Somaliland fulfils the criteria for recognition in accordance with International Law. Somaliland deserves to be rewarded by the International Community but the African Countries and especially the neighbour countries like Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti should pave the way. An independent, peaceful and Democratic Somaliland is the best way to sustain stability in region.

The African Union and the International Community should act upon the realities of the ground. What is needed here is a leadership among the African leaders and International Community. We have to stand up and defend the universal values, like freedom, self determination and democracy. I think time has come for the African leaders to wake up and show their courage and leadership. It is a time for change.

The Swedish Government lead by Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt (Conservative Party) took a courageous and pragmatic decision 15 february 2007. The Swedish government decided to “See Somaliland as a self governing entity when it comes to development co-operation”. This is an important step and the Swedish government should be praised for that. Somaliland aspiration is to be a recognised independent nation. Therefore the Swedish Government should carefully consider recognising Somaliland in the near future. I will raise the question and put Somaliland recognition on the Agenda in Sweden and at the European parliament.

 

Amir Adan
MBA, Accounting &Finance, Stockholm University
Candidate for European Parliament for conservative Party Sweden
Vice chairman, Conservative Youth (West of Stockholm)
Member of District Council West Stockholm