It’s up to Somaliland and the Federal Govt of Somalia to decide their future- UK’s Minister for Africa

Goobjoog News/London: in a bid for recognizing Somaliland as a republic, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Staffordshire Garvin Williamson, introduced a motion to the floor of the House of Commons which was discussed briefly on Tuesday.

The Stafford MP argued that it was long overdue for Somaliland to be recognized as an independent state after fighting for its recognition for a period spanning decades. Gavin, a close friend to Somaliland President Muse Bihi, said he was honored to table the motion.

“It is an absolute honour to be bringing the important issue of recognition of Somaliland to the floor of the House of Commons. Our nations have long historic ties and now it is the time to make history together”, said Garvin.

Bihi extended his gratitude to the Stafford MP for fighting for Somaliland recognition and hoped that Somalilanders would soon enjoy victory.

“Thank you Gavin Williamson for leading the way and calling for a debate on the recognition of the Republic of Somaliland. I hope your Government will be willing to listen to you and other MPs at the House Of Commons. All Somalilanders in and abroad are waiting for this rightful ambition,”.

However, Somaliland’s joy was cut short after UK Minister for Africa, Vicky Ford, said it was upon Somaliland and Somalia to agree on the fate of their future.

“Adjournment debate in the House of Commons underlines consistent UK government position on Somaliland status. It is for Somaliland and the Federal Government of Somalia to decide their future. We continue to cooperate with the Federal Government of Somalia and Somaliland on democracy, security and prosperity,” said Vicky.

Somaliland, which claimed its autonomy in 1991, has been fighting for recognition by the International Community since then; a struggle that is yet to bear fruit.