The separatist region of Somaliland has stated that it has no plans to discuss unity with Somalia, contrary to the efforts of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who expressed his intention to act as a "mediator for unity" between the two governments. Somaliland declared autonomy from Somalia in 1991, but it has not received widespread international recognition for its independence.
In a statement released late Sunday, the Somaliland government said, "Any dialogue that takes place between Somaliland and Somalia will not discuss unity but rather how the previously united states can move forward separately." Somaliland, which has remained largely peaceful for over three decades while its neighbor has experienced civil war, asserted that it "does not intend to engage in talks aimed at discussing unity with Somalia."
Some tribal leaders in disputed areas along Somaliland's border with the semi-autonomous Puntland region of Somalia have expressed their preference to be part of Puntland rather than Somaliland. Violent clashes occurred between Somaliland forces and militia members in the town of Las Anod and surrounding areas in February.
