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{{Infobox_Country|
|native_name = Maakhir State of Somalia<br>ولاية ماخر الصومال
|common_name = Maakhir
|image_flag = NewMaakhirFlag.jpg‎
|image_coat = Maakhir arms.png
|image_map = location maakhir.png
|national_motto =
|national_anthem = ''Somalia Tosow''
|official_languages = [[Somali language|Somali]] and [[Arabic language|Arabic]]
|capital = [[Badhan, Sanaag|Badhan]]
|latd= |latm= |latNS= |longd= |longm= |longEW= |
|largest_city = [[Badhan, Sanaag|Badhan]]
|government_type = Federal State within Somalia
|leader_title1 = [[President of Maakhir|President]]
|leader_title2 = [[Vice-President of Maakhir|Vice-President]]
|leader_name1 = [[Jibrell Ali Salad]]
|leader_name2 = [[Ahmed Guure Adan]]
|area_rank =
|area_magnitude =
|area_km2 = 35000
|area_sq_mi =
|percent_water =
|population_estimate = 700,000
|population_estimate_year =
|population_estimate_rank =
|population_census =
|population_census_year =
|population_density_km2 =
|population_density_sq_mi =
|population_density_rank =
|GDP_PPP_year =
|GDP_PPP =
|GDP_PPP_rank =
|GDP_PPP_per_capita =
|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank =
|HDI_year =
|HDI =
|HDI_rank =
|HDI_category =
|sovereignty_type = [[Autonomy]]
|sovereignty_note = from [[Somaliland]], [[Puntland]] and [[Somalia]]
|established_event1 = Proclaimed
|established_date1 = July 1, 2007
|established_event2 = {{nowrap|Recognition}}
|established_date2 = Unrecognised
|currency = [[Somali shilling]]
|currency_code = SOS
|country_code = so
|time_zone = [[East Africa Time|EAT]]
|utc_offset = +3
|time_zone_DST = ''not observed''
|utc_offset_DST = +3
|cctld = [[.so]]
|calling_code = 252 (Somalia)
|footnotes =
}}

'''Maakhir''' ({{lang-so|''Gobolka Maakhir''}}; {{lang-ar| ماخر }} {{ArTranslit|'' Maakhir''}}), officially the '''Maakhir State of Somalia''' ({{lang-so|''Maamul Goboleedka Maakhir''}}, {{lang-ar|ولاية ماخر الصومال}} {{ArTranslit|''Wilaayatu Maakhir aṣ-Ṣūmāl''}}) is a self-proclaimed autonomous state within [[Somalia]] on an area disputed by [[Somaliland]] and [[Puntland]]. Declared in [[July 1]], [[2007]], it remains unrecognized by the [[Transitional Federal Government]] of Somalia.

==Autonomy==
Maakhir is mainly inhabited by the [[Warsangali]] clan, a member of the [[Harti]] confederation of clans (along with the [[Dhulbahante]] and [[Majeerteen]]) and a clan of the [[Darod]] tribe. The Warsangali were originally one of the principal actors in the creation of the Puntland State as a successor to the Harti [[Sultan]]ates after the collapse of the central government in Somalia in 1991, but since the proclamation of the autonomous Puntland in 1998, the Warsangali have been increasingly sidelined as the Majeerteen clan has assumed a hegemonic role in the state. <ref>[http://www.wardheernews.com/articles_07/august/11_Formation_of_Maakhir_State_Hirad.html The Formation of Maakhir State of Somalia]</ref>

Maakhir State proclaimed autonomy at a [[1 July]] [[2007]] ceremony in [[Badhan, Sanaag|Badhan]] in response to overlapping claims of both Somaliland and Puntland over the western [[Sanaag]], which has led to several conflicts over control of the territory between Somaliland and Puntland.<ref>[http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2005/218/1.shtml Somaliland Warns Puntland Either To Withdraw Militia Forces Or Face Immediate Consequences]</ref> Puntland and Somaliland have both signed oil concessions in this part of Sanaag,<ref>[http://www.wardheernews.com/Articles_06/April/28_Puntland.Mineral.Deal_O.A.&.S.Fatah.html Puntland Oil & Mining Deal: The Offspring of an affair between greed and incompetence (Part I)]</ref> without the consent of the local leadership,<ref>[http://www.wardheernews.com/Articles_06/may_06/09_Mineral.Deal_Omar.&.Salah.html Puntland Oil and Mining Deal: (Part II)]</ref> which also contributed to the desire of the local [[Warsangali]] to administer their own affairs, as well as resolve disputes with [[Mohamud Muse Hersi]], the current President of Puntland.<ref>[http://www.garoweonline.com/artman2/publish/Opinion_20/Somalia_The_rise_of_Maakhir_State_and_the_fall_of_Puntland.shtml The rise of Maakhir State and the fall of Puntland].</ref> In addition to most of Sanaag, Maakhir is also claiming western parts of the [[Bari, Somalia|Bari]] region from Puntland.

Maakhir's template of self-governance like [[Puntland]] rests on the building block system endorsed by the International community as a way of reconstituting the collapsed state of Somalia. This system which authorizes a ''local level'' government in Somalia is seen as a workable long-term strategy in Somalia in resolving inter-clan conflicts and building institutions such as police, court system and a local military base that protects and safeguards the humanitarian aid and the proper operation of International NGOs as well as the provisions of [[United Nations Development Program]]. Maakhir's other agenda is to provide the much-needed public services by implementing a taxation system, and to ensure governance structures for the safety and security of the port and private local enterprises whose fiscal management and ownership follow a non-intervention practice.<ref>[http://www.laasqorayport.org/inner.asp?cat=operations Laas Qorey port Operation].</ref> A third one is to manage through conflict in delivering essential social and economic services; seek to structure consensus around peace, internal security, stability, cooperation and unity of purpose; and build bridges of trust and social harmony across dividing political lines and between opposing interests and groupings.

Neither Somaliland or Puntland has recognised the new state. Despite rumored talks with [[Ali Mohammed Ghedi]], the former Prime Minister of Somalia, the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia has declined to comment the status of Maakhir and seems to regard Puntland as the official authority on the region.<ref>[http://www.markacadeey.com/maqaalo/maqaal_raz_shirwa_20070823.htm Maakhir State of Somalia faces challenges and obstacles]. Article in ''Markacadeey online'' in August 23, 2007.</ref>

==History==
[[Image:Sultan3.JPG|right|350px|Ground royal troops of Warsangeli Sultanate]]
[[Image:Sultan4.JPG|right|250px|Ground royal troops of Warsangeli Sultanate]]
Maakhir State of Somalia claims to be the descendant of the [[Sultanate of Mohamoud Ali Shire]] (Warsangali Sultanate) which is the oldest sultanate in Somalia with a rich history and heritage. The old capital of the Warsangali sultanate was Las Khorey.

The Sultanate of Mohamoud Ali Shire was considered by colonial authorities as having largely hegemonic authority over the other Harti sultanates, and the Warsangali played a large role in 19th century administration of [[Italian Somaliland|Italian]] and [[British Somaliland]]. As the 20th century began however, the British and Italians ended the independence of the semi-independent Sultanates, and the Harti Confederation was dissolved in the midst of Italian and British rule, ending the traditional role of the Warsangali. The illustrious Sultan Mohamoud Ali Shireh was exiled to the [[Seychelles]] – the islands to which many prominent anti-colonial leaders used to be exiled. <ref>[http://www.wardheernews.com/articles/may/20_Garaad%20Mohamoud%20Ali%20Shire.htm A Touching Glimpse of History and the Reunion of a Somali Royalty]</ref>,
After independence, the Majeerteen emerged as the leaders of the Harti group. The Warsangali have however maintained their preeminent position as the traditional leaders of the Harti. This has challenged Puntland's attempts to assert its authority in Sanaag.<ref>[http://www.economist.com/world/africa/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9914899 Somalia: Breaking into even smaller bits -by the Economist]</ref>

=== Disputes with Puntland ===
The disputes between Maakhir and Puntland have centered around Puntland's refusal to recognize Maakhir's declaration of autonomy and insistence that the territory is still part of Puntland, and also Puntland's attempts to carry on business as usual, when such business is exactly what caused the declaration of autonomy in the first place.

====Conflicts with Puntland over Charcoal====
Maakhir banned charcoal production due to the [[desertification]] it causes to the fragile Somali environment. Puntland has ignored the ban and sent several expeditions into Maakhir, with Puntland militia protecting the charcoal traders.. Clashes between Puntland militias escorting charcoal traders and Maakhir militias attempting to stop charcoal production have occurred numerous times since the ban, in [[Mijayahan]]<ref>[http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2005/218/3.shtml Fighting Erupts As Invading Militia From ‎Puntland Are Beaten Back By ‎Somalilanders]</ref>, [[Wa'iye]] and [[Sarmanyo]].<ref>[http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=1271 Gun battle between Puntland Supported Militia and Maakhiri Forces in Southern Sanaag]</ref>

Puntland has publicly stated it does not recognize Maakhir, and still considers Sanaag and western Bari as their territory.<ref>[http://www.somalilandtimes.net/sl/2007/291/3.shtml Puntland Opposes `Makhir State']</ref> The demand for charcoal from [[Arab states of the Persian Gulf]], sometimes referred to as the "Black Gem" due to its profitability, has fueled the clashes.

In order to contain the charcoal expeditions, most of which are heavily armed and backed by big business interests, the Maakhir authority created a volunteer patrol force, the "Environmental Protection Corps". <ref>[http://www.dhahar.com/article.php?articleid=3603 Environmental Protection Corps in Maakhir State of Somalia]</ref>

====Blockade of Bosaso====
A dispute with Puntland over the arrest of prominent Warsangeli businessmen from Bosaso prompted the Maakhir government to blockade the highway to Bosaso until the men were released.<ref>[http://maakhir.wordpress.com/2007/10/20/tentions-build-up-in-northeastern-somalia/ Tensions build up in Northeastern Somalia « maakhir.com<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>

=== Somaliland Military Incursions ===
On February 25th-26th 2008, a Somaliland-aligned, well armed force laid siege to Hadaftimo and Badhan, causing a brief state of emergency before the force withdrew back to Erigavo. Maakhir responded with a military buildup in the Maakhir-controlled part of Erigavo. The situation remains tense.{{Fact|date=May 2008}}

<br clear="both" />

==Administrative Divisions==
[[Image:maakhir map.png|thumb|Map of Maakhir]]
[[Image:Jibrell.jpg|thumb|Pres. Jibrell Ali Salaad]]
Maakhir claims the following administrative divisions currently regarded under its control:

*'''[[Madar]]'''
**[[Badhan, Sanaag|Badhan]] - Capital of Maakhir
**[[Hadaaftimo]]
**[[Hingalol]]
**[[Las Khorey]]
**[[Yube]]
**[[Ceelbuh]]
**[[Laako]]

*'''[[Sanaag]]'''
**[[Ceerigaabo]] - Regional Capital
**[[Damala Xagare]]
**[[Carmale]]
**[[Geilwiete]]
**[[Darasalaam, Sanaag|Darasalaam]]
**[[Shimbiraale]]
**[[Ceelaqoday]]

*'''[[Boharo]]'''
**[[Dhahar, Sanaag|Dhahar]] - Regional Capital
**[[Ceelaayo]]
**[[Bali-Busle]]
**[[Baragaha Qol]]
**[[Buraan]] - Maakhir Authority is planning to open a University in this city.

*'''[[Western Bari]]'''
**[[Galgala]] - Regional Capital
**[[Karin, Bari|Karin]]
**[[Ceel-Doofaar]]
**[[Majayahan]] - A mining town.
**[[Laag]]
**[[Carmo, Maakhir|Carmo]]
**[[Qaw]]
**[[Jiingada]]

===Cities and towns===

The biggest cities in the area claimed by Maakhir are [[Badhan, Sanaag|Badhan]], [[Las Khorey]], [[Dhahar, Sanaag|Dhahar]], [[Buraan]], [[Hadaftimo]], [[Hingalol]], [[Damalla-Hagare]], [[Eilbuh]] and [[Erigavo]].
<br clear="both" />

==Politics and government==
{| style="float:right;width: 400px;margin-left:20px;padding:5px;"
|-
! <h3>Parliamentary Seats</h3>
|-
| As Somali are a largely nomadic people, parliamentary seats are designated by lineage and clan, this being their constituency.<ref>Raz Shirwa [mailto:razshirwa@gmail.com razshirwa@gmail.com] (Journalist)</ref>
|-
! Warsangeli Seats
|-
|
{| class="wikitable" style="width:400px;"
|-
! Subclan
! Seats
! Location
|-
| Adan Sa'iid
| 4
|Hadaaftimo,Badhan, Laasqoray,mashaxaleed. central and Coastal sanag
|-
| Bah-Majeerteen
| 3
| Badhan,Laasqoray, Eilbuh, Hadaaftimo,Erigavo, Central Sanaag
|-
| Gashanbur
| 2
| Buraan, East Sanaag
|-
| Warlabe
| 1
| Badhan, Central Sanaag
|-
| Reer Saalah
| 1
| Midigale, Central Sanaag
|-
| Muhumud
| 1
| Shinbirale, Western Sanaag
|-
| Rer Faatah
| 1
| Laasqoray,Badhan, Durduri, Central and North Sanag respectively)
|-
| Ogayslabe
| 1
| Laasqoray, Sanaag Coast
|-
| Nouh Omar
| 2
| Erigavo,Yubbe,Gelweyte, near Mait, North Sanaag
|-
| Bahogayslabe
| 1
| Erigavo, Carmaale, Damale Haggare, Western Sanaag
|-
| Bahidoor
| 1
| Hingalool, South Sanaag
|-
| Jibrel Sa'iid
| 1
| Erigavo,Darasalaam, Western Sanaag
|-
| Adan Yakub
| 1
| Hingalool, South Sanaag
|-
| Dubays
| 9
| Dhahar, Elayo, Bosaso, Galgala in Eastern Sanaag and Western Bari
|-
| Awramale
| 5
| Kismayo, Bulo Haji
|}
|-
! Other Seats
|-
|
{| class="wikitable" style="width:400px;"
|-
! Minority Group
! Seats
! Location
|-
| Women
| 5
| Not specified
|-
| Dir clans
| 2
| Laasqoray, Erigavo
|}
|}

The disputed status between Puntland and Somaliland has also meant that Sanaag as a whole may not have received all the available and apportioned aid from [[non-governmental organization]]s (NGO)s and [[Aid agency|aid agencies]]. The newly established Maakhir government has made this issue one of their first priorities, and appealed to the Warsangali [[Diaspora]] for assistance.<ref>[http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=997 Jibrell has called the Diaspora to reach out to increasing IDPs in Sanaag and establish Civil Society Organisations]</ref>

===Government===
Due to drought conditions, administrative problems and threats of invasion from Somaliland, the government of Maakhir was dissolved on the 6th of April 2008 by governmental and presidential decree. A new government will be declared by June 1st 2008. The previous government was as follows:

The two branches of government in Maakhir (the Parliament and the Executive) are led by:
* '''President Jibrell Ali Salad''' - President of Maakhir
* '''Eng. Ahmed Guure Aadan''' - The House of Representative Speaker

====State Secretaries====
Maakhir State of Somalia has 17 State secretaries.

President Salad appointed 7 people to his cabinet on the [[4 August]], [[2007]]<ref>[http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=1025 Maakhir State of Somalia names State Secretaries]</ref>, '''Mr. Ahmed Sheikh Salah''' resigned from cabinet due to health reasons, and 4 more secretaries were added on [[September 8]], [[2007]], then another 7 on [[September 8]] [[2007]]<ref>[http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=1278 Maakhir State of Somalia names 7 new State Secretaries]</ref> establishing the following State Secretaries (called Xoghayaashan in Somali):

* '''Mr. Ahmed Hussein Yuusuf''' - Secretary of State for Interior and Security Department
* '''Mr. Ibrahim Mohamed Omar''' - Secretary of State for Housing.
* '''Mr. Ahmed Faarah Ali''' - Secretary State for Finance and Commerce.
* '''Mr. Iimaan Haji Warsame Faarah''' - Secretary of State for Environment.
* '''Mr. Mohamud Mohamed Iise''' - Secretary of State for Social and Labor & Employers affairs.
* '''Mr. Sa'iid Du'aale Mohamed''' - Secretary of State for Transports.
* '''Mr. Sadik Abdi Misan''' - Secretary of State for Natural Resources
* '''Mr. Ali Sa'iid Osmaan Qodah''' - Secretary of State for Trade and Manufacturing
* '''Mr. Abdurrahman Sa'iid Ahmed''' - Secretary of State for International Relations
* '''Prof. Ali Abdurrahman Hirsi''' - Secretary of State for Federal relations
* '''Prof. Mohamed Ali Mohamed''' - Secretary of State for reconciliation and peace affairs.
* '''Mr. Omar Liibaan Arab''' - Secretary of State for justice and Religious affairs.
* '''Ms. Zainab Ismaa'iil Mohamed''' - Secretary of State for Family welfare.
* '''Dr. Ahmed Ali Mire''' - Secretary of State for Agricultures and Livestock
* '''Mr. Abdulkadir Mohamed Sa'iid''' - Secretary of State for Fishing and marine resources.
* '''Eng. Abdirizak Ali Mohamed (Black)''' - Secretary of State for Media and Culture.
* '''Mr. Ali Mohamud Nuur (Ali Sanaag)''' - Commander of Maakhir Police Forces.

The parliament of Maakhir currently has 38 members.<ref>[http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=1071 Maakhir State of Somalia increases its Parliament members]</ref>

===Recognition===
Maakhir has received support from Asha Abdalla, who represents Sanaag in the Transitional Federal Parliament.<ref>{{cite news|title=Maakhir State gains support in Somalia parliament|url=http://www.laasqoray.net/view_article.php?articleid=1252|format=HTML|work=Laasqoray.net|publisher=Garowe Online|date=2007-09-05|accessdate=2007-11-21|language=English}}</ref> As of November 2007, the TFP itself has not indicated whether it will recognize the new state.

<br clear="both" />

==Image Gallery==
<gallery>
Image:1-Luulyo-Badhan(4).jpg|Badhan celebrations
Image:1-Luulyo-Badhan(1).jpg|Badhan celebrations
Image:1-Luulyo-Badhan(8).jpg|Badhan celebrations
Image:1-Luulyo-Badhan(5).jpg|Badhan celebrations
</gallery>

== See also ==
*[[Somaliland-Puntland dispute]]

== References ==
{{reflist}}

{{States of Somalia}}
{{Africa}}
{{Indian Ocean}}

[[Category:Divided regions]]
[[Category:East Africa]]
[[Category:Disputed territories]]
[[Category:Geography of Somalia]]
[[Category:States of Somalia]]
[[Category:Unrecognized or largely-unrecognized states]]
[[Category:English-speaking countries and territories]]

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[[es:Maakhir]]
[[fr:Maakhir]]
[[it:Maakhir]]
[[pl:Maakhir]]
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[[fi:Maakhir]]

Revision as of 02:47, 7 June 2008