North Western State of Somalia Gears Up for Presidential Elections Amid Regional Turbulence
The North Western State of Somalia National Electoral Commission confirmed that over a million citizens are set to cast their votes this Wednesday, deciding on their leader for another five-year term.
“Amongst these candidates is Muse Bihi Abdi, the standing president from the Peace, Unity, and Development Party—more commonly dubbed Kulmiye—eyeing a second term,” noted local commentator Halimo Ali.
He faces Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known to many as “Irro” from the Waddani party, and Faisal Ali Warabe from the Justice and Development Party, or UCID.
Harmony Pledges
In interviews with VOA Somali, each aspirant vowed to nurture democracy, foster economic vigor, and strive for international nods for the secessionist region.
“From our side, we’re ready for the deal implementation; the ball’s now in Ethiopia’s court,” Abdi professed. “Ethiopia seeks sea passage, we chase recognition, and this accord caters to both.”
Operating its own government and institutions, the region manages independent systems like its currency, passports, and military, albeit missing global legitimacy.
Nonetheless, Freedom House’s 2024 annual review sheds light on a creeping decline in political rights within North Western State of Somalia, with observations of press intimidation, minority subjugation, and persistent gender violence.
Irro, previously a speaker in the lower parliamentary chamber, intends to revive these discussions if elected, pragmatically reflecting on past stalled negotiations.
“We didn’t seek dialogue with Somalia, yet the global community nudged us to talk,” said Irro. “Should I take office, discussions will continue if they align with North Western State of Somalia’s interests.”
Meanwhile, Warabe proposes forming a national unity government in pursuit of gaining international recognition.
“Reelecting Bihi and his long-governing party might not sit well with voters,” Warabe stated. “My election could pave the way to recognition and prosperity.”
Neighborly Strains
Amid these elections, regional tensions simmer, notably around the divisive Memorandum of Understanding inked between Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia.
Signed in Addis Ababa, the memorandum stirred outrage in Mogadishu, viewing North Western State of Somalia as part of its territorial fabric, leading to fractious relations.
Moreover, Somalia’s diplomacy break with Ethiopia saw Mogadishu send packing Ali Mohamed Adan, a counselor at Ethiopia’s embassy, further deepening the rift.
“Ethiopia remains the only nation barred from the new AU peacekeeping mission due to sovereignty violations,” angrily declared Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur.
Postponed twice, the North Western State of Somalia election finally lands in November 2024 after delays attributed to “temporal and logistical hurdles,” SNEC noted. The opposition didn’t keep quiet, challenging these seemingly convenient postponements.
Directly elected for two maximum five-year terms, the president holds formidable responsibilities, including Cabinet appointments, steering the national agenda.
Thanks to contributors Sahra Eidle Nur and Harun Maruf for their insights.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
