HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn post) — Somaliland authorities on Wednesday welcomed the return of prominent traditional leader Sultan Abubakar Elmi Wabar, in a development seen as politically significant amid regional dynamics involving Somalia and external actors.
Sultan Wabar, who had in recent years been associated with opposition to Somaliland’s statehood and was reported to have engaged with actors linked to Turkey’s diplomatic presence in Somalia, arrived in Hargeisa where he was received by senior government officials and community leaders.
The return marks a notable shift for the traditional leader, who hails from the Salal and Awdal regions and had previously been critical of Somaliland’s political direction.
Speaking to the media during a reception in Hargeisa, Sultan Wabar directly credited President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro for facilitating his return:
“First of all, I thank the President of Somaliland, Abdirahman, who invested a great deal of time in ensuring my return to the country. I listened when patience ran out for me and many delegations were sent to me. I thank the President, and from now on, we will move forward together.”
He described himself as a traditional elder with political engagement, emphasizing that his past stance was driven by reform efforts rather than hostility:
“I am a traditional elder who also engaged in politics, striving for the interests of the people, the Samaroon community, and Somaliland. I was advocating for improvements — it was not negativity. These are my people, and I love Somaliland. The only difference we had was how to improve Somaliland and prevent the many challenges seen in Somalia and globally. That was my only struggle.”
Sultan Wabar further stated that his grievances were centered on peaceful reform and dialogue, referencing the late Somaliland politician Professor Ali Khalif Galaydh:
“What I mainly shared was the cause that Professor Ali Khalif Galaydh pursued and the approach he took. There was nothing else between us — I have returned with goodwill and brotherhood.”
He also expressed appreciation to Somaliland citizens, particularly those from the Awdal region, for persistently calling for his return:
“To everyone who did not give up on me — including the President and many from the Samaroon community — I thank you. When I reflect, it may even be that the Gadabuursi people love Somaliland more than others. I was compelled to listen, and I have returned in a way that promotes peace, unity and stability.”
Government Officials Highlight Unity and Stability
Senior Somaliland officials described the return as a positive step toward national unity and peacebuilding.
Interior Minister Abdalle Mohamed Arab welcomed Sultan Wabar, emphasizing his historical role in Somaliland’s state-building process:
“Welcome back to your country and your people who are ready to receive you. The Sultan has been away for some time, but he was among those who laid the foundations of Somaliland’s peaceful statehood and contributed to the building of this nation.”
Presidency Minister Khadar Hussein Abdi said the development reflects the government’s inclusive political approach:
“Just as Sultan Wabar has returned, so too will Sool return. His arrival is the result of the President’s policy that Somaliland does not exclude anyone.”
Officials also suggested that the move could pave the way for broader reconciliation efforts across Somaliland regions.
In a separate remark, a senior official underscored regional political tensions, stating:
“Hassan Sheikh, it is your responsibility to hold elections and save your country and your people. Hargeisa, Borama and Las Anod are not your responsibility.”
The Somaliland government reiterated that the return of Sultan Wabar reinforces its commitment to unity, stability and inclusive governance.
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Prepared by:
Horn post staff
