Over the past weekend, renowned legislator Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) drew forth waves of concern and disapproval due to comments she expressed at a local Minnesota event. In a dialogue with the Somali community in the state, Omar appointed herself their advocate in her congressional seat. This message has led to an uproar among critics who argue that her primary allegiance should be to the nation she serves in office.
A short three-minute video of Rep. Omar’s speech spread rapidly across social media channels on Sunday. The clip was reportedly translated by supposed officials from Somaliland, an autonomous region of Somalia seeking recognition as an independent state for many years, however, the international community has yet to acknowledge its sovereignty.
The congresswoman delivered her speech on a Saturday, at a gathering held at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis. The event was organized in recognition of Said Abdullahi Deni’s successful re-election as the president of the Puntland State of Somalia.
Omar’s comments occurred against a backdrop of increasing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, primarily caused by the contested status of Somaliland. Recently, reports indicated that Ethiopia agreed to recognize Somaliland as a separate entity from Somalia. In return, Ethiopia would gain access to a 12-mile stretch of coast in the region through a leasing arrangement.
This proposed deal was outright rejected by Somalia. In a statement, the country defended, ‘There is no space for mediation unless Ethiopia retracts its illegal [memorandum of understanding] and reaffirms the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.’
The Daily Wire acquired a professional transcript of Omar’s remarks from a recognized international translation service. In reference to the agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, Omar asserted: ‘A few days ago, we heard the news about some people, claiming to be Somalis, entering into an agreement with Ethiopia.’
[1] ‘Countless calls came in from people saying, ‘Ilhan, you need to confront the U.S. government about this issue,’ she elaborated. ‘[2] I informed everyone that the U.S. government would comply with our instructions. [3] We ought to have faith in our influence, in our tax-paying capacity, in the fact that one of your daughters, born and raised among you, now serves in U.S. Congress. [4] I reassured them that no one will exploit the Somali seas or waters as long as I am there to represent you.’
Continuing her speech, Omar pledged, ‘[1] I will not allow any foreign entity to jeopardize our interests. [2] Be at ease, Minnesota, for the representative you elected to congress holds deep insights about your concerns and feels connected to them. [3] A special thanks to Somali President Hassan Sheikh, who encouraged the strength of Somalia, a nation full of talented individuals, despite its current crisis. [4] Our homeland remains invulnerable.’
In her concluding statements, Omar offered her congratulations to the Somalis saying, ‘[1] Let’s applaud all the Somalis, in Minnesota and everywhere else, on your unity and support for our president who requires our backing. [2] Somali citizens stand united, indefatigable brothers and sisters, driven by their common devotion to their homeland. [3] No force can partition our land, and we will soon pursue what we lack. [4] We remain united in defense of what land we possess.’
The viral video clip of Omar’s speech and a translation offered to The Daily Wire appeared to share a central message: Rep. Omar is using her position in the U.S. Congress to assertively promote Somalia’s interests. Her dedication to this cause was an underlying theme throughout her speech.
In response to the viral dissemination of her translated speech, Omar expressed her dismissal on social media, condemning the skewed presentation and dismissing it as propaganda.
Omar’s comments sparked sharp criticism from significant Republican figures. Distinguished personalities, including Governor Ron DeSantis, Donald Trump Jr, and Tom Emmer (R-MN), took umbrage at Omar’s sentiments which they considered as prioritizing Somalia over the US. In their view, such behavior directly contravened the responsibilities of a Congress member.
Furthermore, other Republican Members of Congress like Mike Collins (R-GA) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), added their voice to harsh criticisms. Commenting on Omar’s stance on protecting Somalia’s interests over the US, they raised serious concerns about her performance and her loyalty to her oath of office, hinting at possible repercussions.
Calls Grow For Ilhan Omar To Be Expelled From Congress After She Advocates For Somalia appeared first on Real News Now.
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