US congressman pushes for Somaliland recognition, drawing mixed reactions

A US congressman has proposed legislation that would see Somaliland recognised as an independent nation, renewing debate over sovereignty, diplomacy, and US policy in the Horn of Africa.

Rep Scott Perry, who represents Pennsylvania, said Friday that he has introduced the Republic of Somaliland Independence Act, arguing that Somaliland has more than three decades of stability.

‘’Somaliland demonstrated the kind of governance, stability, and cooperation that America should support,” he wrote in a post on X.

“Foreign adversaries are on the march in Africa and around the globe, and it’s in our national interest to strengthen relationships with partners who share our values and contribute to our security, whenever and wherever prudent.”

His remarks have been fodder for mixed reactions. While some agree with Perry that it is time Somaliland is recognised, others feel it could divide and destabilise Africa.

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“I’ve spent significant time there. This is the right decision,” said Cameron Hamilton, responding to Perry’s post.

Another X user, Moha Ahmed, echoed the sentiment: “It's time for the US government to acknowledge Somaliland and the strides it has made. Recognition would not only bolster its emerging democracy but also pave the way for stronger international ties.”

But critics denounced the proposal, warning it would undermine international law and threaten regional stability.

“This is a dangerous and irresponsible stunt that violates Somalia’s sovereignty and international law. Rewarding secession sets a reckless precedent, destabilises the Horn of Africa, and shows a profound ignorance of regional dynamics. You don’t fight foreign adversaries by dismantling allied nations,” Mahad Hashi held.

Sheiknor Qassim also condemned the proposal, noting that Perry had introduced a similar bill last year, which failed. “Congressman Perry, what you’re suggesting goes against international law and the African Union Charter, which the US claims to uphold. If the US truly wants trustworthy partners in Africa, it should be collaborating with Somalia instead of attempting to split it apart based on misleading promises and short-term gains.”

The controversy unfolds amid Kenya’s own delicate balancing act. While Nairobi officially recognises Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, it maintains a complex relationship with Somaliland.

Just weeks ago, Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi opened a liaison office in the capital, citing approval from Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Abdillahi said the mission would serve as a diplomatic outpost to facilitate trade, consular services, and political engagement.

But Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs quickly distanced itself from the event, issuing a strongly worded statement that the office had not received formal approval and does not carry official diplomatic status.

"The event of May 27, 2025, has not been granted approval from the Ministry. Its investiture of the status of a diplomatic office does not enjoy the imprimatur of the Republic of Kenya and cannot be allowed to proceed,” the ministry said.