Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, leader of the Waddani Party, has won the presidential election in Somaliland with 64 percent of the vote, defeating incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi. The election underscores Somaliland’s ongoing struggle for international recognition and the candidates’ shared commitment to revitalizing the regional economy. The electoral process was delayed for two years, further emphasizing the importance of this election in the context of Somaliland’s political aspirations.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as Irro, has been elected as the president of Somaliland, a self-declared autonomous region of Somalia, securing approximately 64 percent of the vote. This election marked a significant victory for the Waddani Party leader, as he defeated the incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye Party, who garnered around 35 percent of the votes. Candidates from both parties focused on revitalizing the region’s struggling economy and enhancing efforts to seek international recognition for Somaliland, which has long been unrecognized officially by any nation despite declaring independence in 1991 amid Somalia’s civil conflict.
Somaliland has established a stable political framework, which starkly contrasts with the unrest present in Somalia. It operates with its own governmental systems, currency, and security forces. Nevertheless, its lack of recognition limits its access to international finance and travel for its populace. The recent election was initially delayed for two years due to funding issues. Both candidates articulated promises aimed at addressing economic concerns and furthering the region’s quest for acknowledgment on the international stage. The political landscape is complicated by ongoing discussions regarding a controversial deal with Ethiopia, which could impact Somaliland’s sovereignty and recognition efforts.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi’s election as president signifies a pivotal moment for Somaliland, as he aims to bolster efforts for international recognition and improve the local economy. The voting results reflect a clear favoring of his vision for the region’s future amid a longstanding struggle for legitimacy. The situation remains dynamic with both local and regional implications, particularly with the potential consequences of the agreement with Ethiopia fully unfolding in the coming months.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
