Zeylac, Somaliland — A growing dispute between the Issa and Gadabursi clans in Somaliland’s Salal and Awdal regions has intensified following the government’s decision to block a cultural celebration planned by the Issa community for December 5, 2025. The event was meant to honor UNESCO’s recent recognition of Xeer Issa, a historic customary law system and one of the oldest in Somali-speaking territories.
The dispute has sparked demonstrations, road closures, and a renewed debate over the Somaliland government’s ability to act as a neutral authority among clans—a critical test for a region seeking international recognition as an independent state.
UNESCO Recognition Turns into Political Flashpoint
The Issa community had organized a major cultural celebration in the coastal town of Zeylac to mark the global recognition of Xeer Issa, a milestone they describe as “a source of pride for all Somalis.”
According to Issa elders, the Somaliland government initially approved the event following consultations with Issa traditional leaders, including Ogaas Mustafa Mohamed and his council of elders (Ganda).
However, tensions flared when members of the neighboring Gadabursi clan objected to holding the celebration in Zeylac, a town within what the Issa consider their historic territory under the Somali customary demarcation system daaqsin iyo deegaan.
Facing pressure, the Somaliland government reversed its prior approval and blocked the celebration—prompting outrage from the Issa community.
Issa Elders Accuse Government of Bias
Issa leaders condemned the move as a violation of cultural rights and as evidence of partiality within Somaliland’s political structure, which critics say is heavily dominated by the Isaaq clan.
“The government cannot claim to uphold democracy and fairness while siding with one clan against another,” said one Issa elder involved in planning the ceremony. “This decision disrespects our culture and undermines peace in the region.”
The elders reiterated that the celebration would proceed as planned, despite the government’s new restrictions.
Protests and Road Closures Across Salal Region
The government’s reversal triggered widespread protests across the Salal region, including:
- closure of the Lowyadda–Zeylac and Lowyadda–Borama roads,
- demonstrations in Issa-inhabited districts,
- heightened tensions in areas where the two clans border each other.
Local sources report that transportation has been disrupted, raising fears that the dispute may escalate into broader conflict similar to the 2023 clashes in Las Anod.
Community leaders warn that any further interference could jeopardize upcoming infrastructure projects, including the planned Lowyadda–Borama and Nagad–Zeylac road corridors supported by international development partners.
Government Accused of Failing to Uphold Fairness
Analysts say the dispute highlights deeper structural issues in Somaliland’s governance. While the region portrays itself as a stable, consensus-based democracy, critics argue that power is concentrated among political and economic elites within the Isaaq clan.
This imbalance, they say, undermines the government’s ability to mediate disputes impartially.
“The government’s handling of the Xeer Issa celebration reveals a serious credibility problem,” said a regional political analyst. “If Somaliland cannot maintain fairness between its own communities, it raises questions about its governance model and its long-standing bid for international recognition.”
Risk of Wider Instability in a Strategic Region
Observers warn that the escalating dispute could destabilize an area considered strategically important due to its proximity to Djibouti, Ethiopia, the Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el-Mandeb shipping corridor.
Local leaders fear that unresolved clan grievances—combined with perceived government bias—may inflame tensions and create long-term instability.
“This is no longer just about a cultural celebration,” one Issa elder explained. “It is about recognition, respect, and the right to live under a fair and neutral government.”
Calls for Dialogue and Impartial Mediation
Civil society members and traditional leaders are now urging the Somaliland government to revisit its decision and open channels for dialogue between the Issa and Gadabursi communities.
Without swift intervention, analysts warn that the standoff could deepen, further undermining Somaliland’s claim that it offers a stable alternative in the Horn of Africa.