Hargeisa (Raxanreeb) – A newly formed rebel group has emerged in Somaliland, heightening political tensions and uncertainty after accusing the current administration of marginalisation and unfair treatment.

In a statement, the group said it mobilised in response to the treatment of former Somaliland president Muse Bihi Abdi at Hargeisa Airport, as he travelled to the United Arab Emirates. The group alleged that the former leader was mishandled by security officers and forced to walk more than a kilometre to reach the airport terminal.

Videos circulating on social media appear to show the former president walking along the airport runway, sparking anger among his supporters, many of whom described the incident as a deliberate attempt to humiliate him and provoke unrest.

Supporters of Muse Bihi Abdi later held protests in several parts of Somaliland, condemning the incident and accusing the authorities of disrespect and political harassment.

The emergence of the rebel group comes at a time when Somaliland is already facing a tense political climate, marked by disputes over delayed elections, territorial claims and clan-based political divisions between the current administration and opposition leaders.