A leading figure in the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, Saleban Mahmud Adan Gal, has called for political reforms including the establishment of political parties.

Mr Gal, a former foreign minister who stood against President Egal for election two years ago, said it was time for a conference of Somaliland's communities to review the political situation.

Correspondents say his remarks come as Somaliland is experiencing severe economic difficulties due to a continuing Saudi ban on Somali livestock imports.

Eight years after breaking away from the rest of Somalia, the government has failed to win international recognition.