Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani Party has won the Somaliland presidential election, securing over 50% of the votes against incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi. The election, delayed multiple times since 2022, highlights Somaliland’s unique political stability as it continues its pursuit of international recognition. This victory occurs in a context of growing tensions with Somalia over recent agreements with Ethiopia.
In a significant electoral victory, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the leader of Somaliland’s main opposition party, the Waddani Party, has emerged victorious in the recent presidential election held on November 13, 2024. The electoral commission reported that Mr. Abdullahi garnered over 50% of the votes, effectively defeating the incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party, who managed to secure just over 30% of the vote. This election, marked by delays due to funding and other logistical challenges, signifies a pivotal moment for Somaliland, a region that has pursued self-governance since its independence from Somalia in 1991. The election results reflect the democratic aspirations of the Somaliland populace and highlight the region’s political stability in contrast to the ongoing struggles faced by Somalia. Despite lacking international recognition, Somaliland has developed its own government and security infrastructure while maintaining a distinct currency. Recently, tensions escalated with Somalia over Somaliland’s agreement with Ethiopia, which allows the region access to the Indian Ocean in exchange for recognition, underscoring the complexities of regional politics.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 amid significant conflict, and since then, it has established its own government and political system distinct from the central Somali authority. Despite its self-declared status, Somaliland remains unrecognized internationally, which complicates its diplomatic relationships, particularly with Somalia. Over the years, the region has managed to cultivate a stable political environment, complete with its own currency and security forces, setting it apart from the persistent instability that characterizes Somalia. The recent electoral developments and political agreements have important implications not only for Somaliland’s internal governance but also for its external relations and territorial claims.
The recent presidential election in Somaliland marks a pivotal shift in the region’s political landscape, with Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi’s victory signifying the electorate’s desire for change. As Somaliland strives for recognition on the international stage, its political stability and continued negotiations with neighboring countries like Ethiopia will play critical roles in shaping its future. This electoral result not only reflects the aspirations of the Somaliland people but also emphasizes the contrast with the political turmoil in Somalia.
Original Source: apnews.com
