With all the money and the effort done to help Somalia to stand on its own, the very people who have benefited from the generosity as refugees were demonstrating against the very Government that has made them who they are.
Somalis in London have organized several demonstrations in recent years to express opposition to British and international involvement in Somalia, reflecting concerns over sovereignty and political representation.
1. Hands Off Somalia Protest (May 2013)
In May 2013, hundreds of Somalis gathered outside Lancaster House in London during a conference co-chaired by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and British Prime Minister David Cameron.
Protesters accused the British government of imposing a federal system on Somalia that they believed would divide the nation and serve foreign interests. They also criticized President Hassan for suppressing federalism and violating the constitution by hindering the establishment of federal states.
2. Somaliland Independence Support (March 2023)
In March 2023, the Somaliland diaspora in the UK held demonstrations outside Downing Street to show support for Somaliland’s sovereignty amid ongoing clashes in the disputed town of Las Anod.
Protesters condemned external interference and expressed solidarity with Somaliland’s national defense efforts. They called for international recognition of Somaliland’s independence and an end to hostilities.
3. Somaliland-Ethiopia Agreement Support (March 2024)
In March 2024, thousands of Somalilanders in the UK participated in a picketing demonstration in London to support a memorandum of understanding between Somaliland and Ethiopia.
The demonstration aimed to underscore that Somaliland’s existence and independence are non-negotiable and to urge the international community to recognize its sovereignty. The event was attended by members of the British Parliament, including MP Gavin Williamson, who expressed support for Somaliland’s cause.
4. Protest Against Ethiopian Prisoner Transfer (September 2017)
In September 2017, Somali residents in the UK protested outside the Ethiopian embassy in London to demand respect for Somalia’s sovereignty following the transfer of a Somali citizen to Ethiopia.
Protesters held placards reading, “The Somali people are not a commodity to be sold,” and called for an end to foreign interference in Somalia’s internal affairs.
These demonstrations highlight the Somali diaspora’s active engagement in advocating for Somalia’s sovereignty and political autonomy, often in response to perceived foreign interventions.
