

Somaliland: Awdal Land State – Open Letter – Memorandum of Understanding signed by Somaliland and Ethiopia (06.01.2024)




















The recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Addis Ababa and Hargeisa begs a lot of questions. Not only about sovereignty and territorial integrity, as Mogadishu is now reacting and condemning Ethiopia’s involvement in the Federal Government of Somalia’s matters. With this regard…
Should Somalia retaliate with the rights and question the annexation of Ogaden (Somali region) and it’s position as a separate state within the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE). That statehood could now be tested and within reason too. As Prime Minister Abiy have opened up a can of worms.
It is reasonable that Mogadishu asks allies to defend itself and get assurances as Ethiopia has invaded Somalia in the past. That’s why they have been able to be the big-man and be a powerful neighbour. However, right now the army of Ethiopia is stretched and more volatile, as they have fought internal conflicts in Tigray, Amhara and Oromia. Therefore, it isn’t coming from a place of strength. No, it is megalomania and we all know it.
Maybe just maybe… the Somali Region (or Ogaden) should return to Somalia as it belongs. This is a colonial reason for why it’s part of Ethiopia. There been wars fought over it and separatist movements sponsored to try to forge a way out of the Ethiopian Federation to no avail. Still, that’s why the dream of Greater Somalia exists. Because, parts of the Somalia is still bound outside it’s current borders.
That’s why Abiy should be more concerned and not dance victory. As people will look at his Republic and wonder what they can slice or dice. Since his not caring about territorial integrity or about another sovereigns interests. A neighbours sovereign interests at that. He didn’t mind violating Somalia and their territories, which is why we are here today.
This is why speculation about Ogaden becomes relevant. When you have a region especially named the Somali Region as a part of Ethiopia. Why should it even be there and for what reason? Who is it serving or for what purpose? Isn’t it natural to return it to Somalia and give them their territories back?
Well, we know the FDRE won’t accept this narrative or story, as they are the custodian of Ogaden for now. They have been so for decades and been able to stop insurgencies that has fought for its liberation. That’s why we know they will not let it go. It will not slide and be a casualty that easily. No, the rulers of Addis Ababa won’t allow that.
Abiy who wants to be King and a Supreme Leader cannot allow himself a defeat or a loss of this magnitude. That can only happen if he is cornered or taken aback, but we know that won’t happen that easily. There is little wiggle room, if any… therefore, Ogaden will most likely stay within the Federation that it’s currently in. Regardless, it is a healthy conversation and this needs to be discussed.
Especially, when Abiy did what he did and are willing to do in recognition of Somaliland. That’s why there has to be ramifications and punitive actions towards Ethiopia. It is only reasonable and people should seek remedy for his actions. That makes perfect sense…
Ogaden. Ogaden. Ogaden. The Somali Region, why is it still a part of Ethiopia and not a part of Somalia. Peace.


