As we are approaching into the 27^th Anniversary of regaining of the independence of our country; the overall image and reputation of the Republic of Somaliland as a peaceful country and beacon of democracy is growing by the day. The yearly celebrations of 18^th of May have become a resourceful and broadly held World-wide event. It is a highly valued and special National Day for all peace-loving Somaliland citizens young and old, at home and abroad.

18^th of May is THE DAY OF REDEMPTION of the once lost freedom and independence of our great nation. A sense of nationhood and togetherness, solidarity, national unity, patriotic mood among the citizens, at home and abroad, and world-wide high-spirited celebrations are all the special features that associated with the World-wide festivities of 18th May of each year.

The 18^th of May event is also an exceptional day to commemorate to all those martyrs who lost their lives not only for defending the existence, dignity and name of their own people but also for the realization of the roots and foundation of our most cherished asset that we have today; the Republic of Somaliland.

In this occasion, I would like to congratulate to all Somaliland fellow citizens (both at home and abroad) for the 27^th Anniversary of our Independence and I wish them all peaceful and prosperous celebrations.

Following nearly 80 years of colonial rule, the former British Somaliland Protectorate gained its independence; on 26 June 1960. Just five days later, on 1^st July, it gave it up again and voluntarily joined with the former Italian Somalia to create the unitary state of the Republic of Somalia. Despite early hopefulness associated with the independence and nationhood euphoria, processes of unification, fair power sharing and a rules-based integration between the two states proved to be a failure by any measure. The voluntarily union with Somalia has caused nothing else but destruction and lost opportunity for millions of Somalilanders. It was a missed opportunity that apparently never turns back.

Historically, legally and politically Somaliland has a unique case for seeking and demanding tirelessly international recognition. The Republic of Somaliland was once an independent and sovereign country that voluntarily merged with Italian Somalia and the nuptials failed. The union of the two countries (1960-1991) was an indisputable failure and the popular referendum in Somaliland (in 2000) has shown immovable resistance to its restoration. Today, Somaliland could have enjoyed its independence and would have been a success story had they not voluntarily united with Somalia Italiana on 1^th July 1960.

The Dignity and Independence of the people of Somaliland has no price!!

Since its withdrawal from 1960 voluntary Union with Somalia-Italiana, on May 18^th 1991, Somaliland has succeeded to provide the country’s population to enjoy a peaceful and congenial environment in which they live side by side in peace and harmony. Somaliland has been an independent country for the last 27 years and governed itself peacefully under a National Constitution endorsed at a national popular referendum.

Somaliland has held 6 times democratic and internationally monitored local, parliamentary and presidential elections. The people of the Republic of Somaliland have shown to the outside world their value, belief and exceptional quality with respect to adopting democratic norms and values. Somaliland’s democracy model is an encouraging and promising sign for all African states, which can pave the way and pointing Africa to the right direction.

Somaliland’s democracy project is a home grown miracle; it is something emerging from native grassroots rather than being imposed from outside or being realised by the gun point. I believe that the international community is making a serious mistake by ignoring the reality on the ground in the Horn of Africa Region. The people of Somaliland have tested the real benefits and value of the independence, freedom, peace and democracy. They will never join again whatsoever a union with Somalia at the cost of their freedom.

In political, geographical and legal terms, the Republic of Somaliland has tremendously met all the criteria’s and requirements that were necessary to qualify for international recognition as a separate country. The people of Somaliland should have been rewarded for their democratic credentials, peace and sustained stability in a challenging and volatile region. The Republic of Somaliland is a Brave and Resourceful country that Deserved World Recognition, unfortunately it became the victim of an ambiguous world of double standards.

Conclusion:

The Somaliland opponents, whoever and wherever they are, should bear in mind that the birth of this great nation ‘the Republic of Somaliland’ came forth through the sacrifice, bloodshed and tears of an oppressed and exploited people who found freedom as they had endured the pain and misery suffered at the hands of their oppressors.

No matter whatever happens next but one thing is certain: The dignity and independence of the people of Somaliland has no price!! The self-determination and the incredible perseverance of the VENERABLE PEOPLE of Somaliland will ultimately prevail.

ALLAH bless and protect the people and country of Somaliland,

Eng. Hussein Adan Igeh (Deyr)

 Former Minister of Trade and Investment & Presidential Spokesman,

Hargeisa, Republic of Somaliland,