Deadly unrest continues to rock Borama over Xeer Isse controversy

Tensions in the city of Borama continue to escalate as protests intensify following the Somaliland government’s decision to allow the launch event for the Xeer Isse book to take place in the town of Zeila. The late-night policy shift triggered unrest that residents say has led to some of the most serious clashes the city has seen in decades.

The dispute erupted when authorities in Hargeisa announced support for the event, which was organized to mark UNESCO’s December 2024 decision to add Xeer Isse to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition highlighted the system as a form of traditional governance and community-based legal culture. While widely welcomed, the designation has stirred sensitivities in parts of Awdal, particularly in mixed-clan areas. Reports of the planned celebration in Zeila quickly fuelled tensions, leading to the latest round of deadly demonstrations.

The Commander of the Somaliland Police Force, speaking to the media, warned that “the security forces will not tolerate the situation in Borama,” adding that they “will not accept a scenario where security collapses.”

MP Mukhtaar Maydhane, a member of the Somaliland Parliament representing the Awdal region, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation. He noted that despite numerous injuries and several confirmed deaths, the government has continued to deploy additional forces to the city. Lamenting the crisis, he said it has become “a day when the words of an elected official have no impact.”

Since the protests began last night, videos circulating widely on social media have shown scenes of unprecedented police brutality, including what appears to be the unrestrained use of live ammunition. One video shows police officers firing shots inside Borama’s main hospital, where large numbers of injured protesters were reportedly being treated. The hospital administration has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations.

MP Mohamed Abiib, also elected from the Awdal region, delivered strong criticism of the Somaliland government. He accused authorities of deliberately targeting civilians, alleging that they had “intentionally shed blood,” and claimed the government had “deployed untrained, militia-like military forces at every junction.” Abiib called on the President to immediately withdraw military forces from the city.

Opposition parties also condemned the violence in Borama. The Kaah Party, led by Mahmoud Hashi, issued condolences to the families of those killed in the unrest. “We criticize the government for issuing two contradictory decisions,” Hashi told reporters, adding that the party had previously warned against using force to resolve the dispute. Kulmiye Party leadership also addressed the media, with Chairman Mohamed Kahin offering condolences and urging all sides to de-escalate tensions

The escalating violence in Borama once again highlights a troubling pattern: the increasingly common use of excessive force by Somaliland police during protests. Human rights groups have long expressed concern over systematic brutality, and the latest events in Borama appear to reinforce those fears.