Prof. Dr. Abdirahman M. Abdullahi (Baadiyow)
Abstract
This essay addresses the Somali state-building process’ challenges and Revisionist approaches, the author proposes an alternative viewpoint called the “Comprehensive Perspective” (CP). The CP rejects sectionalization, colonization, secularization, and patriarchization within Somali studies, advocating for an inclusive approach encompassing all elements of Somali society. The essay presents six scenarios representing the Somali mindset, highlighting the varying loyalties to Islam, nationalism, and clan, which pose significant challenges to state-building. The classification and dynamics of traditional and modern Somali elites are also examined. The CP offers an alternative perspective for Somali studies and a solution through the Inclusive Reconciliation Framework (IRF). The essay concludes that reconciliation between state and society requires reconciling political elites, restructuring traditional institutions, addressing past grievances, and establishing a foundation for a shared future. This process should be reflected in constitutional provisions and legal frameworks while involving non-state actors like civil society organizations and business communities to contribute to the Somali state-building effort. Integrating non-state actors leads to developing a “stability model for Somali state-building.”
Key word: theorizing, state, comprehensives, perspective, sectionalization, anthropology
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