Voting is currently taking place in Somaliland’s long-awaited presidential election, following significant political tension in the Horn of Africa. Over 1 million people are expected to cast their ballots across more than 2,000 polling stations, with 28 international observers present to monitor the process.
The election, which has been delayed multiple times since 2022, is set to determine the next president of the self-declared independent region of Somaliland. The incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye Party, is running for re-election. He has emphasized the importance of securing international recognition for Somaliland, which has operated as a separate state since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991. Despite its functioning government, economy, and security forces, Somaliland’s independence is not recognized globally, and it continues to face challenges in gaining international acknowledgment.
Bihi’s main rivals are Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani Party, who is campaigning on a platform of democratic reforms, and Faisal Ali Warabe of the Justice and Welfare Party, who advocates for a unity government to bridge political divides. The voters have expressed their desire for a stronger economy and more job opportunities, indicating that economic issues are a top priority in this election.
Somaliland’s political situation is further complicated by its relationship with Somalia. While Somaliland maintains a stable and separate governance structure, Somalia regards it as part of its sovereign territory, and the two nations have not reconciled the status of Somaliland. In recent developments, Somaliland’s agreement with Ethiopia to secure access to the Indian Ocean has raised tensions with Somalia. This move is seen by some as a strategic threat to Somalia’s territorial integrity and has added another layer of complexity to the election and regional relations.
This election marks Somaliland’s fourth presidential race, but the delays in holding the election have sparked concerns about the stability and reliability of its electoral process. Voters, however, have expressed hope that this election will bring about a positive change, particularly in terms of addressing economic challenges and promoting democratic growth in the region.
Somaliland’s presidential election is a significant event, not only for the region but also for the broader Horn of Africa. With hopes for a more prosperous future, the election is a crucial step in the region’s ongoing quest for international recognition and stability. However, political tensions, both internal and with Somalia, could continue to influence the region’s development in the years to come.
