Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga met Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, pledging his support for Somaliland’s recognition efforts.
In a move that contrasts with the Kenyan government’s position on Somaliland, the meeting was revealed through a statement by Abdirahman on Tuesday, June 3.
The meeting served as a farewell for Abdirahman, who was Raila’s guest, and came just days after Somaliland opened a diplomatic liaison office in Nairobi.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the esteemed African statesman, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, for the gracious farewell dinner hosted in my honour and that of my delegation,” Abdirahman stated.
“Your unwavering support for Somaliland’s aspiration to claim its rightful place among the community of nations is deeply appreciated. Your leadership and steadfast commitment to Africa’s unity and development continue to inspire us all,” he added.
Led by President Abdirahman Mohamed, Somaliland opened a Mission office in Nairobi on Thursday, May 29, despite Kenya initially disapproving of the opening of a Liaison Office.
However, in a quick rejoinder, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the newly opened Somaliland Mission, reaffirming its recognition of Somalia’s sovereignty.
Reacting to the events that unfolded on Thursday, attended by leaders from both Somaliland and Kenya, the Ministry reaffirmed its initial stance and confirmed its disapproval of the opening of the Republic of Somaliland’s Mission office, asserting it lacked official endorsement.
The Kenyan government had previously stated that the establishment of a Somaliland Liaison Office could not be upgraded to a diplomatic mission, citing its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity.
However, Somaliland proceeded with the inauguration, marking a significant step in its push for international recognition.
The intriguing diplomatic situation gained a new dynamic after President William Ruto had a meeting with Abdirahman at State House, Nairobi.
Reacting to the events that unfolded on Thursday, attended by leaders from both Somaliland and Kenya, the Ministry reaffirmed its initial stance and confirmed its disapproval of the opening of the Republic of Somaliland’s Mission office, asserting it lacked official endorsement.
The Kenyan government had previously stated that the establishment of a Somaliland Liaison Office could not be upgraded to a diplomatic mission, citing its commitment to Somalia’s territorial integrity.
However, Somaliland proceeded with the inauguration, marking a significant step in its push for international recognition.
