On Wednesday, voting took place in Somaliland’s long-delayed presidential election, marking a significant moment for the breakaway region, which has been striving for international recognition since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991. The election, initially set for 2022, was postponed for two years due to financial and logistical challenges, and it has now captured attention both domestically and internationally.
The Candidates and Their Platforms
President Muse Bihi Abdi, who has served as Somaliland’s president since 2017, is seeking re-election for a second term. Abdi, of the ruling Kulmiye Party, has campaigned on a platform focused on economic development, regional stability, and international recognition for Somaliland. He has emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and promoting democracy, stating that the country’s success depends on peaceful elections and the peaceful counting of votes.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as “Irro,” is the main challenger from the Waddani Party. He advocates for democratic reforms and greater social cohesion, promising to increase roles for women and youth in government. Faisal Ali Warabe, the third candidate from the Justice and Welfare Party, calls for a national unity government that would bring together all factions of the country to ensure stability and development.
Somaliland’s Quest for International Recognition
Somaliland, while maintaining a functioning government, currency, military, and a stable political system, is still seeking recognition as an independent state. Despite its de facto autonomy, it remains unrecognised by any country, including Somalia, which considers it part of its territory. This lack of recognition limits Somaliland’s access to international finance, trade, and diplomatic relations.
A key issue shaping the election is the hope that the outcome will boost Somaliland’s prospects for recognition. President Abdi’s administration has been actively pursuing international acknowledgement, particularly through its partnership with Ethiopia. In January, Somaliland and Ethiopia signed a historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) granting Ethiopia access to the Berbera Port on the Red Sea. In return, Ethiopia has signalled potential support for Somaliland’s bid for recognition, although it has not explicitly committed to formal recognition.
The deal has caused significant tensions with Somalia, which opposes any recognition of Somaliland’s independence and views the agreement as a violation of its territorial integrity. This tension is further complicated by the involvement of regional powers like Egypt, which backs Somalia, and Ethiopia, which has expressed interest in the deal with Somaliland. The fallout has included diplomatic expulsions between Somalia and Ethiopia, and ongoing regional debates about sovereignty and security.
The Electoral Process
Despite regional tensions, the election process itself has gone smoothly. Voter turnout was high, with more than 1 million people registered to vote at over 2,000 polling stations. The election was peaceful, with no major incidents reported, and vote counting began promptly after the polls closed at 6 p.m. local time. The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) announced that the results would be disclosed by November 21.
“We have successfully solved minor technical issues reported in some polling stations,” said NEC Chairman Muse Hassan Yusuf. “The election has taken place democratically and peacefully,” added General Mohamed Adan Saqadhi, head of Somaliland’s police force.
International Attention and Regional Implications
The election has attracted international observers, with 28 observers from various countries spread across Somaliland. These observers will play a crucial role in ensuring the credibility and transparency of the election, which could have significant implications for Somaliland’s international standing.
As Somaliland seeks recognition, its internal political dynamics also play a role in shaping its international relations. The rivalry between the ruling Kulmiye Party and the opposition Waddani Party reflects the country’s maturing democracy, with both sides vying to lead Somaliland through the next phase of its development, including securing recognition on the world stage.
The outcome of this election will likely influence Somaliland’s relationship with Ethiopia, as both the government and opposition parties have expressed support for the port deal, despite the tensions it has generated in the region. Somaliland’s government is optimistic that the new administration, whether it remains in power or changes hands, will continue to prioritise the quest for international recognition and the economic benefits brought by the port agreement.
The Ongoing Debate Over Recognition
The tension over Somaliland’s independence continues to shape the region’s geopolitics. While Somaliland views recognition as essential for its future, the government in Mogadishu has maintained that it will not accept any moves towards recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. The diplomatic standoff with Somalia, coupled with the involvement of external actors like Ethiopia and Egypt, makes the region’s future uncertain.
In response to the ongoing conflict and geopolitical dynamics, Somaliland has taken steps to assert its autonomy, including the closure of an Egyptian cultural center in Hargeisa in September, a move signalling its commitment to its alliance with Ethiopia. Analysts suggest that the region’s path to recognition may be slow and fraught with challenges, but the desire for international legitimacy remains a key driving force in Somaliland’s political landscape.
A Historic Moment for Somaliland
As Somaliland heads toward a possible change in leadership, the election represents more than just a political contest—it is a defining moment in the region’s quest for self-determination and recognition. With significant regional tensions and a complex international environment, the new leadership will have to navigate a delicate balance between fostering domestic unity, managing external relationships, and continuing the push for international recognition.
The outcome of this election, paired with Somaliland’s growing international profile and economic partnerships, will likely shape the region’s future trajectory and its role in the Horn of Africa for years to come.
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