Vote counting is underway in Somaliland after a peaceful presidential election, with over 1 million registered voters participating. Minor technical issues were resolved, and results are expected by November 21. Tensions with Somalia persist due to a controversial agreement with Ethiopia regarding the Gulf of Aden coast. The election features three candidates, including incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi, all vying to strengthen democracy and promote economic growth.
Poll counting has commenced in Somaliland following a smoothly conducted presidential election. The Somaliland National Electoral Commission reported that polling centers closed at 6 p.m. local time, with over 1 million registered voters across approximately 2,000 polling stations. Vote counting will progress from polling centers to districts, and ultimately to regional levels, with results expected to be announced by November 21. NEC Chairman Muse Hassan Yusuf confirmed that minor technical issues at some polling stations had been resolved. General Mohamed Adan Saqadhi, head of the Somaliland Police Force, praised the peaceful nature of the elections, stating, “Thanks to Allah, the election took place democratically and peacefully. No incident was reported.” Three candidates, including the incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi from the ruling Kulmiye party, competed in this election. Abdi is vying for a second term against Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani party and Faisal Ali Warabe of the Justice and Development Party (UCID). Each candidate has committed to enhancing democracy, fostering economic growth, and achieving international recognition for Somaliland—a goal pursued for over three decades. The elections unfold amidst heightened tensions between Somaliland and Somalia, particularly due to a controversial agreement that grants Ethiopia a long-term lease for access to a portion of the Gulf of Aden coastline in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s independence. Somalia perceives this agreement as a breach of its sovereignty. The political landscape remains sensitive as disputes continue between Somalia and Ethiopia regarding this deal. Recent diplomatic tensions have led to the expulsion of Ethiopian diplomats from Somalia, underscoring the ongoing friction over territorial and sovereignty issues. The Somali Defense Minister recently reiterated the government’s stance against Ethiopian troop involvement in a new African Union peacekeeping mission set to launch in January, further exemplifying the strained relations between the two nations.
Somaliland, a self-declared republic that has not gained international recognition since its independence from Somalia in 1991, has maintained relatively stable governance and democratic processes. It has a functional political system with a history of peaceful political transitions, independent institutions, and a commitment to promoting democracy. However, the region continues to grapple with disputes over its status with Somalia, especially against the backdrop of agreements with neighboring Ethiopia that complicate its quest for international legitimacy and recognition.
In conclusion, the peaceful conduct of the presidential elections in Somaliland reflects the region’s commitment to democracy amid complex political dynamics. The elections not only involve local governance but are also intertwined with broader geopolitical tensions, particularly with Somalia’s claims over Somaliland. The forthcoming results will be crucial for the future leadership and potential international recognition of Somaliland as it navigates its aspirations in a challenging regional context.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
