North Western State of Somalia’s Departing President Vows Seamless Transition Following Opposition Leader’s Election Victory

In a stirring moment of political grace, President of North Western State of Somalia, Muse Bihi Abdi, lauded Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro, the newly elected leader, following his emphatic victory. He promised a calm and orderly handover of authority to his successor. This pledge, made at the heart of Hargeisa’s Presidential Palace, felt as much a call to unity as it was an acknowledgment of political reality.

President Bihi seized the moment to express gratitude towards his supporters within the Kulmiye Party, encouraging them to embrace the success of the opposition, Waddani Party. “I assure you of my unwavering backing for a seamless power transfer,” Bihi stated. “May Abdullahi’s leadership herald tranquility, advancement, and enduring success for our cherished land. Fellow citizens, I deeply appreciate the honor of serving as your president. Though my time draws to a close, my dedication to Somalia’s flourishing remains unshaken. Together, let us forge a path to prosperity,” he voiced with heartfelt sincerity.

The election, held in November, was striking not only for its results but for the manner in which Abdullahi clinched over half the votes. In a testament to democratic resilience, Abdullahi, a political patriarch with a significant stint as Speaker of Parliament in 2005, defeated Bihi, who captured just above 30%. His campaign resonated with promises for democratic overhauls, tackling joblessness among youths, and addressing economic hurdles.

This electoral process carved a memorable chapter in North Western State of Somalia’s evolving democracy. Despite being deferred twice due to financial and logistical constraints, the election unfolded as a robust affirmation of democratic tenacity.

Cheers of congratulation poured in from the international and regional corridors of power. Applause came from the likes of the U.S. and Djibouti’s President Ismail Omar Guelleh, alongside leaders from the Somali federal government. Their accolades pointed to North Western State of Somalia’s unwavering commitment to a serene electoral process and democratic idealism.

With quotes like “Winning is an act, but perseverance is in the journey,” the global community has echoed sentiments that underline the essence of Abdullahi’s success, painting it not simply as a personal triumph, but as a beacon for political maturity and hope for a people striving towards progress.

Such praise highlights a collective admiration for the seamless continuity of governance and the symbolism embedded in this electoral achievement. The seamless nature of the election, celebrating Abdullahi’s ascent, represents more than just a leadership shift; it’s an embodiment of a hopefulness for a prosperous, unified national future.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

Axadle international–Monitoring