The Promise of Independence: What Does It Mean to You as a Somali?

By Dayib Sh. Ahmed

Every year, Somalis commemorate June 26, the day part of Somalia achieved independence from colonial rule in 1960, and July 1, when two of the five territories united to establish the Somali Republic. These two historic dates symbolize freedom, unity, hope, and the dream of building a strong and prosperous Somali nation. They also remind us that Somalis emerged from decades of brutal colonial rule, determined to shape their destinies. Yet, more than six decades later, every Somali must ask a difficult question ; What does independence truly mean if the nation remains politically divided, institutionally dysfunctional, and unable to provide security, justice, essential public services, and equal opportunities for all its citizens?

Since independence, Somalia has endured decades of stormy politics. Military rule, civil war, state collapse and subsequent prolonged political transition with recurring disputes between federal and regional administrations have all contributed to weakening the state. Rather than building durable institutions founded on the rule of law and national consensus, successive governments have struggled to establish a shared vision capable of uniting the country. Neoclanism pundits who appear to live in an alternate universe are often celebrated by disenfranchised public for hollow political pronounciations. In this context, these demagogues present themselves as champions of moral and economic renewal for those who feel betrayed, though their promises are often rooted in unrealistic expectations and surreal thinking.

Today, too much of Somalia’s politics revolves around clan competition, short-term political alliances, and personal ambition. Meritocracy is overshadowed by patronage, while public institutions serve political interests instead of the national interest. Over the years, the rhetoric delivered by political leaders from Mogadishu, Garowe, Kismayo, Baydhabo, and Hargeisa has emphasized division, blame, and historical grievances instead of reconciliation, accountability, and national renewal. As a result, far too many leaders speak primarily to their political supporters rather than to the Somali people as a whole. Political opponents are portrayed as enemies instead of fellow citizens, while the urgent needs of ordinary citizens—security, education, healthcare, employment, infrastructure, and economic opportunity—receive far less sustained attention.