Opposition leader Abdirahman wins Somaliland presidency with 64% of the vote

The election, held on November 13, saw a total of 1.2 million ballots cast.

According to the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (SNEC), chaired by Musa Hassan, Abdirahman, the leader of the opposition Wadani Party, received 407,908 votes, while President Bihi of the ruling Kulmiye Party received 225,519 votes.

Faysal Ali of the Union for Integration and Development (UID) Party finished far behind, with 4,699 votes.

Abdirahman’s victory marks a significant moment in Somaliland’s political history.

The opposition leader had been a vocal critic of Bihi's extended term in office, which saw the incumbent serve two years beyond his original term.

Bihi, who took power in 2017, faced calls for a regime change as his prolonged tenure fuelled growing discontent.

Somaliland, a self-declared independent state that separated from Somalia over three decades ago, has long prided itself on its peaceful democratic process.

This election is another example of the country's stable political environment, with power transitions taking place without major upheaval.

Despite its democratic progress, Somaliland continues to seek international recognition as a sovereign state, as many countries still consider it part of Somalia.

Abdirahman's victory is viewed as a victory for those advocating for political renewal and reform, implying a potential shift in the country's leadership.

Following the announcement, the newly elected president promised to prioritize national unity, economic development, and international recognition in his upcoming term.

This election further underscores Somaliland’s commitment to peaceful democratic processes, positioning the self-declared republic as a beacon of stability in the Horn of Africa.