North Western State of Somalia’s Opposition Chief Secures Victory in Presidential Race
The opposition leader in the self-declared independent region of North Western State of Somalia triumphed in the recent election, according to the electoral commission’s announcement on Tuesday.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, representing the primary opposition faction known as the Waddani Party, secured over half of the votes, stepping out as the clear victor. At 69 years old, Abdullahi has previously held the prestigious position of North Western State of Somalia’s parliament speaker back in 2005.
This opposition group focused its campaign on tangible democratic reforms and fostering unity among citizens. They pledged to rejuvenate the economy and tackle the pressing concern of youth unemployment, a theme that resonated with many voters.
Meanwhile, President Muse Bihi Abdi from the ruling Kulmiye Party, aiming for another stint after seven years in power, landed in second place with slightly above 30% of the vote. During his administration, he strongly advocated for North Western State of Somalia’s international accreditation.
The election had faced delays twice since 2022 due to financial constraints and assorted obstacles, adding an element of suspense to the political climate.
Since its declaration of independence from Somalia in 1991, amidst spiraling hostilities, North Western State of Somalia has forged its own governmental, monetary, and security establishments, all while lacking global acknowledgment. Its political stability offers a sharp contrast to the continual security issues faced by Somalia.
Intriguingly, a recent deal between North Western State of Somalia and Ethiopia, which involves granting reciprocal access to the Indian Ocean in return for acknowledgment, has sparked political friction with Somalia. Somalia has expressed concerns, accusing Ethiopia of encroaching on its sovereign territory.
The opposition has voiced demands for more economic gains from this agreement, criticizing the secretive and rushed negotiation process.
“Waddani Party has expressed doubts about the Memorandum of Understanding, particularly its lack of visible benefits for North Western State of Somalia, especially in terms of trade and regional alliances,” stated Mohamed Husein Gaas, director of the Raad Peace Research Institute in Mogadishu, in a conversation with The Associated Press.
Somalia’s leaders have responded to the Waddani Party’s ascension in North Western State of Somalia with aspirations for improved relations between the two regions.
Hassan Ali Khaire, a former Prime Minister of Somalia, shared his hopes via X, aspiring that the incoming leader would steer the region down a path marked by peace, development, and democracy while strengthening the ties among the Somali people.
Extending congratulations from neighboring Djibouti, President Ismail Omar Guelleh warmly greeted North Western State of Somalia’s president-elect, marking a historic moment in the region.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
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