Ethiopia Extends Congratulations to North Western State of Somalia’s Newly Elected President
“A Warm Salute to North Western State of Somalia’s New Leader”
In a statement brimming with diplomatic warmth, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended heartfelt congratulations to North Western State of Somalia’s freshly elected leader, Abdirahman Mohammed Abdullahi, this Tuesday. By underscoring the dignified transition between President Muse Bihi Abdi and President-elect Abdullahi, the ministry paid homage to the commendable democratic strides being taken in the region.
“On behalf of Ethiopia’s people and its government,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry celebrated, “we commend President-Elect Abdirahman Mohammed Abdullahi – Irro, and salute his electoral triumph.”
Echoing these sentiments, the ministry also recognized the outgoing president for his role in embodying democratic leadership and extended well-wishes for Abdullahi’s tenure ahead.
Recognition and Struggles of North Western State of Somalia
North Western State of Somalia’s long-standing aspiration for international recognition has been quite the journey. Declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, it shares a history as old as Eritrea. Yet, due to complex geopolitical landscapes and Somalia’s insistence on its claim over the region, global acknowledgment still seems elusive. Meanwhile, interventions by militant groups like Al-Shabaab stir the pot of local stability, rendering the region’s peace narrative murky in the eyes of the world.
Yet, hope floats with the recent election considered both “free” and “fair.” Social media buzzes with optimism as some locals anticipate that the global community, especially Western powers, might finally reevaluate their stance and recognize the sovereignty of North Western State of Somalia.
Democracy in Action: A Peaceful Electoral Process
Adding another feather in its cap of democratic achievements, North Western State of Somalia’s latest election on November 13, 2024, marked the fourth time citizens have peacefully chosen their leaders. The presidential race saw standout contenders from established parties, including the incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi of Kulmiye, Waddani’s Abdirahman Mohammed Abdullahi, and UCID’s Faysal Ali Warabe.
According to insiders, the Electoral Commission had swiftly declared Abdirahman Mohammed Abdullahi Cirro as victor, thus making him the sixth president. Of note, Abdullahi previously presided over the North Western State of Somalia House of Representatives.
Voter participation hit a high note as over a million ballots were cast at more than 2,000 polling booths, a testament to the population’s vested interest in their governance.
Regional Challenges and Shifting Allegiances
The intertwined histories of North Western State of Somalia and Somalia are riddled with contention. Despite over three decades passing since North Western State of Somalia declared its independence, Somalia maintains its territorial claim, tensions intensifying especially after a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between North Western State of Somalia and Ethiopia in January.
This Memorandum stirred the geopolitical cocktail, as Somalia viewed it as an infringement on its sovereignty, leading Somalia to fortify alliances elsewhere. By August, an agreement with Egypt saw plans for 10,000 Egyptian troops to support Somalia’s security efforts under a new African Union mission.
Eritrea, after falling out with Ethiopian leadership, threw more fuel onto this fiery mix by training tens of thousands of Somali soldiers. October witnessed a formal agreement in Asmara, resulting in Eritrea further sealing its camaraderie with Somalia and Egypt, forming what is perceived as an anti-Ethiopian force.
Such movements have raised Ethiopia’s eyebrows, particularly as Egypt’s involvement rekindles tensions linked to the contentious Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) project.
Ethiopia’s Chess Game
In this unfolding regional drama, Ethiopia seeks to secure its strategic interests. With North Western State of Somalia at its side, Ethiopia is treading cautiously, aware that finalizing the Memorandum of Understanding—a contract anticipated to translate into North Western State of Somalia’s formal recognition—holds significant potential. This venture could conclude with a 50-year lease agreement for Coastal land, strengthening economic ties and geopolitical influence.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
