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Polling stations in Somaliland closed on Wednesday evening after what has been described as a peaceful presidential election. The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) reported that voting concluded at 6 p.m. local time, marking a successful election day for the breakaway region, which registered over 1 million voters across approximately 2,000 polling stations.
Somaliland Vote Counting Underway, Results Expected Soon
Vote counting commenced at polling centers shortly after voting ended. The NEC stated that the results would be processed progressively, moving from polling centers to district levels, then to the regional level. NEC Chairman Muse Hassan Yusuf expressed satisfaction with the process, noting only minor technical issues that were quickly addressed. The final results are expected to be announced by November 21.
A Peaceful Election Thanks to Strong Security Measures
Somaliland Police Force head General Mohamed Adan Saqadhi reported a calm and incident-free election. “Thanks to Allah, the election took place democratically and peacefully. No incident was reported,” he stated, underscoring the importance of peaceful democratic practices in the region.
Candidates Aim to Bolster Economy and Gain International Recognition
Three candidates, including current President Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye party, contested the election. Abdi is seeking a second term and is running against Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, also known as “Irro,” from the Waddani party, and Faisal Ali Warabe of the UCID party. Each candidate has promised to strengthen Somaliland’s economy, promote democracy, and continue the region’s 33-year pursuit of international recognition as an independent state.
Somaliland and the Quest for Independence
Since its self-declared independence from Somalia in 1991, Somaliland has maintained a stable government, its own currency, passports, and an organized political system. Despite its success, Somaliland has yet to gain international recognition. This election marks its fourth democratic presidential vote since the collapse of the Siad Barre regime in Somalia, underscoring the region’s ongoing commitment to self-governance and democratic principles.
Ongoing Tensions Over Somaliland’s Agreement with Ethiopia
The election comes amid continued tensions between Somaliland, Somalia, and Ethiopia over a 50-year agreement granting Ethiopia access to the Gulf of Aden. The deal has sparked controversy and diplomatic strain, as Somalia perceives the arrangement as an infringement on its sovereignty. Recent attempts at resolving the dispute, with mediation by Turkey, have yet to yield an agreement.
Future Relations and Regional Stability
As the votes are counted, Somaliland’s future remains a focal point for regional stability in East Africa. With growing economic ambitions and a unique path toward democratic governance, Somaliland’s leaders and citizens are hopeful that the results will support their efforts for international recognition.