Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani Party won Somaliland’s presidential election, securing over 50% of the votes. Incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi received just over 30%. The election follows several delays and is critical given Somaliland’s unique position of self-governance without international recognition. Concerns regarding a recent agreement with Ethiopia highlight the need for transparency and economic benefits. Regional leaders express hope for improved relations following this political transition.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the opposition leader representing Somaliland’s Waddani Party, has emerged victorious in the recent presidential election, as confirmed by the electoral commission. Securing over 50% of the votes, Abdullahi, aged 69, previously served as the speaker of Somaliland’s parliament in 2005. His platform emphasized democratic reforms and efforts to address youth unemployment, aiming to rejuvenate the economy. In contrast, the incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party, garnered just over 30% of the votes in his bid for a second term. Throughout his tenure, President Abdi focused on securing international recognition for Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 amidst turmoil. The election itself faced delays due to funding issues and other logistical challenges since 2022. Despite lacking broad international recognition, Somaliland has established a functioning government, currency, and security framework. This stability has sharply distinguished it from the ongoing security struggles in Somalia. A recent agreement with Ethiopia, granting Somaliland access to the Indian Ocean, has generated political tensions with Somalia, which contends that Ethiopia’s actions might jeopardize its territorial integrity. Critics from the opposition have voiced concerns regarding the lack of clear economic benefits from this agreement. Following the election results, leaders in Somalia expressed optimism for improved relations with Somaliland. For instance, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire expressed hope that the newly elected president will guide the region towards peace, development, and enhanced unity among the Somali people. Similarly, the president of Djibouti, Ismail Omar Guelleh, extended congratulations to the president-elect of Somaliland, reflecting regional support for the political transition.
Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has maintained its own system of governance despite not receiving widespread international recognition. It has experienced a relative degree of stability compared to the rest of Somalia, which continues to grapple with conflict and insecurity. The election recently held was critical in determining the leadership for a region that has developed its political structures successfully, yet still seeks recognition and support from the international community. The negotiations with Ethiopia, while beneficial in some aspects, have fueled concerns over the region’s autonomy and lucrative opportunities for economic growth.
The election of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi marks a significant political shift in Somaliland, with hopes for beneficial changes in governance and economic progress. The Waddani Party’s focus on democratic reforms and addressing youth unemployment aligns with the aspirations of the local population. As Somaliland navigates its path forward, the need for cooperation and constructive engagement with Somalia will be essential for regional stability and growth.
Original Source: www.seattletimes.com
