HARGEISA, Somalia — Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” has called for a comprehensive peace agreement and unconditional prisoner exchange with the Las Anod-based administration during his annual address to the joint houses of Parliament on Tuesday.
The president’s speech signaled a significant effort to de-escalate regional tensions that have persisted in the eastern regions. President Irro confirmed that his administration has established communication with leadership in north-central areas, expressing confidence that existing disputes can be resolved through dialogue rather than ongoing conflict.
“Somaliland is prepared for peace-building, the unconditional exchange of prisoners, and reopening movement for people and trade to strengthen coexistence,” Irro told lawmakers.
Previous Prisoner Exchange Efforts
The president’s call for a prisoner swap follows previous goodwill gestures between the parties. In April 2025, Somaliland and the SSC-Khaatumo administration were reportedly preparing to exchange a limited number of prisoners, signaling a potential step toward peace following the violent clashes in Las Anod in early 2023.
The conflict in Las Anod erupted in February 2023 after Somaliland security forces cracked down on civil protests, leading to an escalation when Dhulbahante clan elders declared the formation of the SSC-Khaatumo administration. The ensuing clashes resulted in over 300 deaths and displaced more than 150,000 individuals.
In a significant gesture aimed at de-escalating tensions, the Puntland administration released 15 prisoners who were captured during the 2023 conflict in Las Anod, coming just one day after Somaliland released 11 prisoners of war detained from the same clash. The reciprocal actions were welcomed by observers and peace advocates as a confidence-building measure that could pave the way for renewed dialogue.
Sanaag Peace Model
The president pointed to the current situation in the Sanaag region as a successful model for stability, noting that his government has maintained continuous engagement with local communities since assuming office.
In October 2025, President Irro presided over the official closing ceremony of the Sanaag Peace Conference in Erigavo, marking the end of a landmark gathering that rekindled hope for lasting peace and unity in the region. The week-long conference brought together elders, traditional leaders, and community representatives from across Sanaag, culminating in a historic accord rooted in reconciliation, solidarity, and a renewed national spirit.
“Peace is the cornerstone of our strength and sovereignty,” President Irro declared at the conference, urging the people of Sanaag to safeguard the unity and mutual respect that have long defined Somaliland’s resilience. He paid heartfelt tribute to the traditional elders and mediators whose patience and leadership guided the negotiations to a successful conclusion.
Conditions for Prisoner Exchange
President Irro also praised the recent peace delegation led by Garad Kulmiye, which traveled to Buuhoodle and Las Anod to bridge gaps between the administration and local leaders. He noted that since early 2025, his government has been vocal about its readiness for peace and reconciliation.
The leadership in Las Anod has not yet issued a formal response to the president’s proposal for an unconditional prisoner swap. Previous reports indicated that SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdiqadir Jama Aw-Ali Firdhiye had stipulated that the release of Somaliland army prisoners would only occur upon reaching a comprehensive peace agreement and cessation of provocations by Somaliland in SSC-Khaatumo territories. Currently, SSC-Khaatumo holds over 229 Somaliland army prisoners.
Economic and Humanitarian Proposals
By proposing the restoration of trade routes and the free movement of civilians, the Somaliland government seeks to revitalize the local economy while reducing military presence in volatile areas.
He expressed hope that a peaceful resolution could be reached with the Las Anod-based administration, emphasizing that the Sool region and Somaliland share deep-rooted cultural and familial connections that make them inseparable.
“The people of eastern Sool are people without whom the rest of Somaliland cannot do without. They share blood and culture. If mistakes have occurred or harm has been exchanged, it is something we can resolve together with a lasting solution,” Irro told parliamentarians.
He insisted that any past grievances or mistakes should be addressed collectively through traditional and political channels.
Somaliland’s Firm Stance on Sovereignty
While extending an olive branch to the Las Anod administration, President Irro also delivered a firm message to the Federal Government of Somalia, making it clear that there would be no return to previous unity.
“I call on the government in Mogadishu to recognize that we can reach a point of no return. The only thing we are ready for is to be brotherly neighbors,” he said.
The president also used poetic language to reinforce his firm stance, stating, “Do not try to deceive me; I do not know hesitation” — a remark widely interpreted as a signal of political resolve and Somaliland’s determination not to reverse its course.
Economic Resilience and Security Reforms
During his address, President Irro highlighted economic resilience despite global and regional disruptions. He noted that cargo volumes at Berbera Port rose by 27% in 2025, while livestock exports reached approximately 3.6 million head. The national budget increased by 20%, alongside a 9% reduction in spending, reflecting tighter fiscal controls.
Key economic reforms included the implementation of a Treasury Single Account to improve transparency and management of public finances.
The president pointed to major reforms in the security sector, including the integration of 6,000 newly trained personnel into the armed forces, the establishment of a military pensions authority, and the launch of a national cyber security unit.
“For the first time, a comprehensive National Security Strategy has been developed,” Irro said, adding that the measures were aimed at strengthening sovereignty and modernizing defense institutions.
Commitment to Democratic Elections
On the political front, Irro stressed the importance of governance reforms, highlighting anti-corruption measures and decentralization efforts to improve public service delivery.
“Delays in elections pose a serious threat to our democracy,” he said, adding that the National Electoral Commission would determine the timeline for upcoming polls for the House of Representatives and local councils.
International Recognition Push
On foreign policy, Irro reiterated that securing international recognition remained Somaliland’s top priority, describing Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a “historic milestone.”
“Recognition is not merely symbolic, it is a gateway to economic opportunity and global engagement,” he said.
He stated that Somaliland had increased its international engagement through participation in global forums such as the World Economic Forum and the World Governments Summit, helping to attract investment and strengthen partnerships.
However, he warned that external opposition to Somaliland’s recognition efforts remained a challenge.
The leadership in Las Anod has not yet issued a formal response to the president’s proposal for an unconditional prisoner swap.
