Kenya reaffirms Somalia’s sovereignty ahead of Somaliland leader’s visit

NAIROBI, Kenya - The government of Kenya has reiterated its respect for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that the independence of the Horn of Africa nation remains undisputed and should not be interfered with by any country or entity.

In a statement, Kenya's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diaspora affairs maintained that its relationship with Somalia remains 'stable' despite undertones of strained partnerships emanating from direct links with the federal states of Somalia.

While committing to support Somalia’s peacebuilding process, the government of Kenya, however, maintained it would continue to establish diplomatic presence in a number of regional states, notably Jubaland and Somaliland.

"As Somalia advances state building and institutional development agenda, the government of Kenya stands ready to support those efforts through sustained dialogue, enhanced regional cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships," read the statement.

"To advance the partnerships, Kenya shall maintain relationships with sub-national governments of Jubaland and Somaliland, and in consultation with the federal government, to establish contact and a diplomatic presence as may be agreed from time to time."

However, this comes just moments before Somaliland leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi alias Irro visits the East African nation, where he is expected to meet the country's top leadership. There are claims that he might meet President William Ruto.

Although Somalia has not issued any statement about the visit expected today (Monday), Irro had previously visited Djibouti and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Somaliland is still pushing for international recognition, over three decades after announcing self-independence.

While Somaliland is yet to gain statehood, Kenya, just like many other countries, has a diplomatic presence in the state. The region runs a separate government from that of Mogadishu with complete independence legislature, judiciary, and executive.

The statement also comes a few days after Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, the regional leader of Jubaland, visited Kenya. Madobe had disagreements with the federal government about the model of elections, with the central administration in Mogadishu refusing to recognize his victory.

GAROWE ONLINE