In a historic election, opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, widely known as Irro, emerged victorious to become Somaliland’s sixth president since its self-declared independence in 1991.
The 69-year-old leader of the Wadani Party secured 64% of the vote, decisively defeating incumbent President Musa Abdi Bihi, who garnered 35%. Irro’s win ushers in a new chapter for Somaliland, a region striving for international recognition amidst economic challenges and diplomatic disputes.
Diplomatic Strains and Economic Challenges
Irro’s campaign revolved around a promise to revisit contentious policies, particularly a deal granting landlocked Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer stretch of Somaliland’s coastline for a naval base. Announced at the start of the year, the agreement stirred regional tensions, with Somalia denouncing it as an act of aggression against its territorial claims.
Although Irro has avoided outright rejection of the agreement, his diplomatic tone suggests potential revisions. The deal also underscores Somaliland’s strategic significance, positioned as a gateway to the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea. For Ethiopia, it offers maritime access; for Somaliland, it holds the hope of formal recognition by Addis Ababa.
Irro’s leadership begins as Somaliland grapples with economic difficulties, which have eroded public confidence in the local currency. Critics of outgoing President Bihi point to his dismissive leadership style as a reason for his loss. In contrast, Irro is seen as a unifying figure, promising to prioritize the voices of Somalilanders.
A Remarkable Journey to Leadership
Born in Hargeisa, Irro’s journey to leadership has been defined by resilience and adaptability. After attending school in Somalia, he pursued higher education in the United States, earning a master’s degree in business administration. His career began in Somalia’s foreign service in the early 1980s, leading to a posting in Moscow as part of Somalia’s embassy team.
During the Somali Civil War, Irro became the acting ambassador to the Soviet Union. Amidst the chaos, his family fled to Finland, where he later joined them and acquired Finnish citizenship. The turmoil, however, didn’t deter him from returning to Somaliland to help shape its political future.
In 2002, he co-founded the Justice and Welfare Party (UCID), marking his entry into Somaliland politics. A decade-long tenure as speaker of parliament followed, during which he founded the Wadani Party, a force that has now catapulted him to the presidency.
Building Somaliland’s Future
Irro has expressed gratitude for the peaceful election held on November 13, which was observed by diplomats from nine European countries and the United States. “We are all winners—the Somaliland state has won,” he remarked, thanking outgoing President Bihi for his service since 2017.
As president, Irro faces the daunting task of balancing diplomatic relations while navigating Somaliland’s quest for recognition. He has pledged to continue fostering ties with Taiwan, a move that previously angered both Somalia and China when Somaliland established formal relations with Taipei in 2021. His stance signals a commitment to strategic partnerships that serve Somaliland’s long-term goals.
A History of Resilience
Somaliland’s story is one of determination. A former British protectorate, the territory united with Somalia in 1960 but declared independence in 1991 following the ousting of President Siad Barre. The region bore the brunt of brutal conflict, with tens of thousands killed and its capital, Hargeisa, reduced to rubble. Yet, Somaliland rebuilt itself, establishing its own currency, government institutions, and security forces.
This progress starkly contrasts with Somalia, which descended into decades of anarchy and still battles significant challenges, including terrorism and a lack of direct elections. Somaliland, while unrecognized internationally, has maintained relative stability and democratic governance.
A Vision for Somaliland
Irro’s presidency offers a chance to redefine Somaliland’s trajectory. His diplomatic finesse and focus on inclusive leadership are seen as key to addressing the challenges ahead. The president-elect will be sworn in on December 14, signaling a new era of governance in a region that continues to defy the odds.
While recognition remains elusive, Irro’s leadership could mark a turning point in Somaliland’s journey toward international legitimacy. With regional dynamics shifting and internal challenges demanding attention, the new president has a unique opportunity to shape Somaliland’s future on its own terms.