Introduction
On 12th July 2024, U.S. Ambassador Richard H. Riley visited Hargeisa, in the self-governing region of Somaliland, for crucial talks with President Muse Bihi Abdi and other leaders. The visit highlighted the U.S. commitment to supporting prosperity and democratic governance in Somalia and Somaliland. Riley highlighted the importance of a free press and active civil society, while addressing regional tensions, including the withdrawal of ATMIS forces and disputes between Ethiopia and Somaliland. He emphasized the U.S. role in fostering regional stability and upholding democratic processes. President Bihi expressed appreciation for the visit.
Association
On 3rd September 2024, Somaliland's intelligence officers detained opposition MP Mohamed Abib at the airport in Hargeisa as he returned from Dubai and then moved him to an undisclosed location. This detention follows the Attorney General’s August request to lift Abib’s parliamentary immunity to pursue criminal charges related to his meetings with Somali and Djiboutian officials and his critical statements on Somaliland’s conflict in Las Anod.