Petition to Revoke Abiy Ahmed’s Nobel Peace Prize Over Horn of Africa Conflicts

Dear The Norwegian Nobel Committee,

The Nobel Peace Prize medal traditionally symbolizes the recognition of individuals dedicated to fostering global peace. Unfortunately, the honor bestowed upon Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has been marred, transforming the prestigious medal into a symbol associated with conflict rather than peace.

We respectfully request the responsible committee to reevaluate and revoke the medal granted to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. His recent actions, particularly the initiation of force in the Somali Sea through a so-called agreement with Somaliland, have garnered widespread condemnation from notable entities, including the European Union, the African Union, the Arab League, the Islamic Organization, Norway, Turkey, the UK and the U.S.  (please refer to the attached press releases for comprehensive details).

He has egregiously infringed upon the independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of the Federal Government of Somalia.

It is imperative to note that Somaliland is an integral part of Somalia and cannot independently enter into agreements with other governments. It shares similarities with Tigray, a region previously intervened in by Abiy Ahmed, causing extensive destruction and the slaughter of 700,000 people, encompassing women, children, prisoners, and prominent figures such as Ethiopia’s former foreign minister Seyoum Mesfin, following its declaration of independence.

Abiy Ahmed’s forceful assertion of control over Somalia’s Red Sea coastline poses a substantial risk of exacerbating the already dire situation in the Horn of Africa. The region is grappling with challenges such as drought, poverty, and hunger, and such actions could potentially trigger a humanitarian crisis, leading to waves of refugees and prolonged displacement.

Abiy’s aggressive actions in the Horn of Africa also present an opportunity for the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization, further complicating the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to eradicate them. The war against Al-Shabaab has seen success since the reelection of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who declared total war against this group in August 2022.

The immediate revocation of the Nobel Peace Prize bestowed upon Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is paramount to preserving the integrity and purpose of this esteemed accolade. The Nobel Peace Prize shouldn’t be the certificate to endorse or encourage conflicts.

Thank you,

Somali Diaspora Movement.