Somaliland Opposition Leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Wins Presidential Election
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani Party won Somaliland’s presidential election on November 13, 2024, with over 50% of the votes, defeating incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi, who received just over 30%. Somaliland has operated independently since 1991, despite lacking international recognition and maintains a stable political environment compared to Somalia.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the leader of the opposition party Waddani, has emerged victorious in Somaliland’s recent presidential election held on November 13, 2024. According to the electoral commission, Abdullahi secured over 50% of the votes, effectively establishing a new leadership after challenging the incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party, who garnered just above 30% of the votes cast. This significant electoral outcome marks a pivotal moment for the self-declared nation that has sought to maintain its autonomy since gaining independence from Somalia in 1991.
Somaliland is a region that unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in 1991, a time characterized by conflict and instability in the wider nation. Despite lacking international recognition, Somaliland has managed to cultivate a distinct governmental structure, security framework, and currency, establishing an environment of relative political stability. The recent electoral process in Somaliland comes after delays related to funding challenges and other logistical issues. Moreover, a controversial agreement with Ethiopia aimed at securing port access raises tensions with Somalia, which perceives it as a threat to its territorial integrity.
The election of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi marks a notable shift in Somaliland’s leadership and a substantial achievement for the opposition. With a majority of the votes, Abdullahi’s victory signals a request for change among the electorate, amidst ongoing challenges surrounding funding and political negotiations with neighboring Ethiopia. As a region that has strived for international recognition, Somaliland’s political developments will continue to be critical in shaping its future aspirations and stability.
Original Source: apnews.com
