North Western State of Somalia’s Bihi Calls for Backing in Crucial Election Tied to Independence
North Western State of Somalia is on the brink of a significant election, and President Muse Bihi Abdi is rallying the masses for support. In a televised chat with the populace, he trumpets the administration’s plea for unity and backing in their quest for international acknowledgment, especially with the November elections looming. Interestingly, the official notice came from the Office of the North Western State of Somalia President.
Hargeisa (AX) — As the voting days draw near, President Muse Bihi Abdi ramps up appeals to the nation to rally behind his Kulmiye party, suggesting it’s the only group poised to garner global recognition and ensure future stability for North Western State of Somalia.
“Our alliances are rock solid,” proclaimed Bihi during his recent TV address, portraying the election as a critical juncture for North Western State of Somalia on the international platform. “We’re not after personal benefits; our mission is to cement North Western State of Somalia’s rightful position among global nations.”
In his tenure since December 2017, Bihi has doggedly pursued global acknowledgment, claiming his government’s diplomatic maneuvers have set the stage for international partnerships. Highlighting strengthened relations with Kenya and Guinea, he called these steps “pivotal” in crafting North Western State of Somalia’s independent identity, notwithstanding Somalia’s fierce rebuttals. Notably, in December 2020, Bihi’s visit to Nairobi prompted Somalia to cut ties with Kenya, considering it a breach of sovereignty.
Yet, Bihi’s current pleas arrive amidst escalating regional tensions post an agreement with Ethiopia this January. It conferred Ethiopia access to the Red Sea via North Western State of Somalia’s Berbera port in return for recognizing North Western State of Somalia’s sovereignty. While this marked a stride towards international legitimacy—a pursuit close to Bihi’s heart—it also triggered backlash from Somalia, which still considers North Western State of Somalia its domain. Somalia expelled an Ethiopian diplomat in protest, further straining an already taut relationship. Bihi views the accord as a landmark in North Western State of Somalia’s recognition journey.
The National Electoral Commission of North Western State of Somalia (NEC) has paved the electoral groundwork, implementing biometric mechanisms like iris scanning to safeguard the integrity of the elections. With 1.3 million voters registered, campaigns kicked off on October 19. Discussions have revolved around pivotal issues such as security, economic progression, and self-governance.
Amidst the campaign fervor, Kulmiye grapples with robust rivalry from the Waddani party, under the leadership of Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi, affectionately dubbed Irro, who challenges the Waddani’s control in Somalia’s lower parliament. The veteran political figurehead Faysal Ali Warabe, leading UCID and a staple in every presidential contest since 2003, also throws his hat into the ring.
Every leader casts this election as a decisive point for the self-proclaimed state, which remains unreconciled with Somalia’s central authority.
As we approach the last stretch of campaigning, this election holds the potential to redefine North Western State of Somalia’s trajectory. The stakes include its efforts for recognition, economic growth, and regional peace.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
