Somaliland’s ruling Waddani party has strongly responded to the opposition Kaah party’s stance against the opening of the Somaliland embassy in Jerusalem, insisting that Somaliland’s recognition and the Jerusalem embassy are inseparable issues.
The chairman of the Waddani party, Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan, said that anyone who supports Somaliland’s recognition should also support the steps taken. He said that it is not possible to say that recognition is supported but the Jerusalem embassy is rejected.
“Somaliland’s recognition is one thing, not two things that can be divided. If you reject the Jerusalem embassy, clearly state that you are also against recognition. You can’t confuse the public. It is clear that you are trying to create religious conflict in society, and political issues should not be religiousized. The issue of recognition is a political issue, and Somaliland must receive recognition and come out of isolation,” Hirsi said.
Chairman Waddani’s statement comes amid a dispute within the Kaah party over the position on the Jerusalem embassy. Two deputy chairmen of the party have publicly opposed the party’s decision, with one being removed from office, while the other spoke publicly about the issue last night, although it has not yet been announced whether administrative action will be taken.
On the other hand, the Somaliland government insists that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, stating that the Somaliland embassy was opened in West Jerusalem, arguing that many countries in the world recognize it as Israeli-controlled territory.
Palestinian leaders have also previously told me that East Jerusalem is the capital of the Palestinian state, while West Jerusalem is Israeli territory, and this is the argument the government is currently using.
