Washington has signed a security agreement with Somalia’s northeastern federal member state, without the approval of Mogadishu. What do you think of that move? Was that a deliberate pass at Somalia’s sovereignty
1. Washington has signed a security agreement with Somalia’s northeastern federal member state, without the approval of Mogadishu. What do you think of that move? Was that a deliberate pass at Somalia’s sovereignty?
Answer:
“Let me be absolutely clear: Somalia is one sovereign nation. Our Constitution and international law recognize the Federal Government as the sole authority responsible for foreign affairs and national defence.
If a foreign government chooses to negotiate security arrangements directly with a federal member state while bypassing Mogadishu, it raises serious questions about respect for Somalia’s constitutional order.
Whether it was intentional or not, the effect is the same—it weakens confidence in our national institutions and creates unnecessary political tensions.
The real question is not only what Washington did. We must also ask why Somalia has become vulnerable to such situations.
A strong, united and respected Somalia would leave no room for ambiguity. That is the Somalia I intend to build.”
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2. How legal were Washington’s actions? How would that even work in terms of international law?
Answer:
“International law recognizes states—not regions—as subjects of sovereignty.
The Federal Republic of Somalia is the internationally recognized state. Federal member states are constitutional entities within that state; they do not independently conduct foreign policy or conclude defence agreements on behalf of Somalia.
If an agreement concerns national security, military cooperation or defence policy without the authorization of the Federal Government, then serious constitutional and legal concerns arise.
Ultimately, legality depends on the exact nature of the agreement, but the principle remains clear: Somalia’s sovereignty cannot be fragmented.
As President, I will ensure that our international partners have one clear counterpart when it comes to Somalia’s national interests.”
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3. Earlier this month, the President of Somaliland met with U.S. Major General Claude K. Tudor Jr. to discuss strategic security cooperation and maritime security. What does that meeting tell us about U.S. intentions toward Somalia’s sovereign territory?
Answer:
“I don’t believe foreign policy should be based on speculation about intentions.
I judge countries by their actions.
The Horn of Africa has become one of the world’s most strategic regions. Every major power is competing for influence because of the Red Sea, maritime trade, counterterrorism and regional security.
That reality means Somalia must become a serious state capable of shaping events rather than reacting to them.
If any foreign engagement undermines Somalia’s sovereignty, I will oppose it firmly through diplomacy.
But I also believe Somalia must become a country that international partners cannot afford to bypass.
Respect is earned through strength, unity and competent leadership.”
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4. Earlier this month, the United States terminated around $500 million in annual funding for the UN Support Office in Somalia. Around the same period, Somaliland opened an office in West Jerusalem. Many people see these developments together. What is your interpretation?
Answer:
“I understand why many Somalis are asking questions about the timing.
However, leadership requires evidence, not assumptions.
I am not prepared to conclude that these events are coordinated without credible proof.
What concerns me is something much bigger.
Somalia’s relationship with international partners should never become so fragile that major policy shifts happen without serious consultation.
If elected, I will pursue a foreign policy based on mutual respect.
We welcome partnerships.
We reject dependency.
We will engage every nation from a position of dignity while protecting Somalia’s constitutional integrity.”
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5. What do you believe Washington and Israel ultimately want in Somalia and its territories? Why do you think Mogadishu’s authority appears to face increasing external challenges?
Answer:
“Every nation pursues its own interests.
The United States is interested in counterterrorism, maritime security, freedom of navigation through the Red Sea and strategic competition in the Horn of Africa.
Israel also has security and regional strategic interests, particularly concerning maritime routes and broader Middle Eastern geopolitics.
That is normal.
The real issue is not what other countries want.
The real issue is whether Somalia knows what it wants.
When a country lacks political unity, institutional strength and strategic direction, external actors naturally pursue relationships wherever they find opportunities.
I don’t intend to spend my presidency blaming foreign governments for acting in their own interests.
I intend to ensure Somalia is strong enough that every foreign government understands one simple fact:
There is only one legitimate gateway for relations with Somalia—the Somali state.”
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6. AFRICOM’s commander recently said that if Somali leaders fail to resolve political disputes and institutional dysfunction, continued U.S. military engagement could become unsustainable. What is your response?
Answer:
“I actually agree with one part of that statement.
No foreign military partnership can compensate for domestic political failure.
If Somali leaders remain divided, no international partner can build stability for us.
That responsibility belongs to Somalis.
Where I differ is this:
Somalia’s future security cannot depend indefinitely on foreign troops.
Our objective must be to build professional armed forces, capable intelligence services and accountable institutions that protect our people without permanent external dependence.
That requires political reconciliation, constitutional clarity and leadership that puts the nation above personal interests.
That is exactly why I am running for President.”
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Closing Statement (TV Interview)
“This election is not about America. It is not about Israel. It is not about any foreign capital. It is about Somalia.
We cannot control the interests of other nations, but we can control the strength of our own institutions.
My vision is simple: a Somalia that is united at home, respected abroad, and confident enough to engage every nation as an equal. We will defend our sovereignty through competent diplomacy, strengthen our state through reform, and build a country where no foreign government ever doubts who speaks for Somalia.
That is the Somalia I am asking the people to build with me.”
