By Dr. Mohamed-Rashid Sheikh Hassan

I am writing this article my personal capacity as concerned Somalilander

The World is closely watching Somaliland’s current political development, in particular the European Union who wants to provide financial and logistic support to Somaliland elections; the United Nations that has developed package of projects to support Somaliland’s socio-economic reconstruction and development; the United Stated which is concerned about the stability and security of the regions and African Union which wrote a favorable report for Somaliland Case in 2005. There is growing uneasiness among all these stakeholders about the lack of smooth progress for the preparation of the expected Local and Presidential elections which is expected to take place in 2008. The key of this preparation is to have in place an agreed National Commission.

The recent breakdown of the talks between the two houses of parliament as reported by the press regarding the issue of the National Commission and the Budget will definitely increase this uneasiness.

The lack of smooth progress of Somaliland democratization process will have a wider implication on the actions and the behaviors of all who support Somaliland case and moreover the Somaliland business and Diaspora communities.

The leadership of this country be it the government or the parliament must act swiftly and resolve their differences. Failure to do this can bring political and social deterioration that could be difficult to reverse them in future. It could also damage the positive image that Somaliland has in the International Community.