Somaliland Defense Minister Quits over Ethiopia deal
GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somaliland Defense Minister Abdiqani Mohamud Aateeye has resigned in protest of the controversial naval deal between president Muse Bihi and his Ethiopian counterpart Abiy Ahmed.
In an interview with a local television station, Aateeye cited his opposition to the agreement signed on January 1st in Addis Ababa, as the reason for his resignation.
He expressed concerns that Ethiopia’s intentions extended beyond the sea and port, accusing them of encroaching on Somaliland’s territory.
Aateeye faulted President Bihi for failing to consult with his ministers before signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ethiopia, stating that they learned about it from the media.
The agreement has faced strong opposition from the Somali government and the broader Somali community.
The international community has pledged support to the government, acknowledging its right to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.