Somaliland sends message to international community on Thursday’s protests

The Somaliland government has released a statement to the international community, stating that it was saddened by clashes that erupted at Thursday’s demonstrations held by opposition parties in the capital Hargeisa.

The statement, which was posted to the Ministry of Foreign affairs website, stated that the unwarranted protests, are contrary to the laws and regulations of Somaliland, and that the government was saddened by the violence that culminated after.

The message added that the Somaliland government while protecting the safety of its citizens, is at the same time, committed to continuing the dialogue with the country’s opposition parties and encouraging the opposition to do the same.

Clashes between Police and demonstrators yesterday morning in the city center, resulted in several injuries.

Police commissioner, Mohamed Adan Saqaadi, later released a statement, further reiterating the government’s position over Thursday’s events, stating that the government is committed to upholding its citizen’s democratic rights, including the right to vote and to be voted for. However, the law must be upheld and opposition parties must obtain the necessary permissions in order to conduct demonstrations.