May 25, 2007

Somaliland: Independence Day Celebrations


Thousands of Somalilanders, as well as national and foreign officials, ahve gathered to attend celebrations in Hargeysa.

Thousands of Somalilanders, as well as national and foreign officials, ahve gathered to attend celebrations in Hargeysa.

Below is an article published by the Somaliland Times:

Hargeysa, May 19, 2007 - Somaliland celebrated its 16th year of independence today, the day when it revoked its 1960 act of unconditional union with the former south Somalia, the day when on May 18th 1991 the people of the former British Protectorate of Somaliland unanimously declared their sovereignty of statehood in Buroa.

The highlight of 18 May celebrations took place in independence square in Hargeysa. Thousands of Somalilanders attended the event, including the President of Somaliland Dahir Rayale Kahin and national, local government and opposition officials, as well as traditional leaders and foreign dignitaries.

The president gave a speech in which he drew attention to his government’s record of accomplishment in education, internal and foreign affairs, health, trade and development. President Dahir Rayale Kahin wished all Somalilanders inside and outside the country a happy anniversary. He also cautioned Somalilanders against the turmoil in the region and asked the people of Somaliland to safeguard the unity of the nation, and “to be vigilant against those wishing to harm the country.”

All major towns and cities in the country commemorated 18 May independence day