Hargeisa, Somaliland – Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, the newly elected president of Somaliland, was officially sworn into office on Thursday in a landmark ceremony following last month’s decisive election. Abdullahi’s victory, which marked a turning point in the breakaway region’s leadership, has reinvigorated Somaliland’s longstanding quest for international recognition.
The former opposition leader, who represents the Waddani Party, succeeds Muse Bihi Abdi after securing more than 50% of the votes in the November 13 election. The peaceful election process and high voter turnout have been celebrated as a testament to Somaliland’s democratic maturity, setting it apart from Somalia’s volatile political landscape.
In his inaugural address, Abdullahi, 69, outlined his administration’s priorities, emphasizing foreign policy and bolstering efforts to achieve sovereignty on the global stage. “Our legal and historical arguments for recognition are valid and compelling,” he declared, vowing to present Somaliland’s case with renewed vigor.
A Stable Yet Unrecognized State
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, establishing its own government, currency, and security forces. Despite its stability and democratic governance, it remains unrecognized by the African Union, United Nations, or any other country. Somalia continues to assert its claim over Somaliland’s territory.
The new administration also inherits contentious regional issues. Among them is a deal Somaliland signed with Ethiopia in January, which granted Ethiopia access to coastal land for a marine base in exchange for recognition of Somaliland’s independence. The agreement, criticized by Abdullahi during his campaign for lacking transparency, has heightened tensions with Somalia, which views the deal as a violation of its sovereignty.
Challenges and Promises
Abdullahi’s administration faces pressing domestic and international challenges. Internally, conflicts in Somaliland’s Sool region demand immediate attention, while externally, diplomatic efforts to gain recognition require navigating complex regional dynamics.
“The agreement with Ethiopia and others like it will be reviewed to ensure they align with our strategic goals and interests,” Abdullahi stated.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Somaliland’s capital, Hargeisa, drew regional and international figures, including U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley, who praised Somaliland’s democratic resilience. “The people of Somaliland have set a standard of democracy not only for this region but for Africa and the world,” Riley remarked, reaffirming U.S. support for Somaliland’s development.
A Renewed Push for Sovereignty
Somaliland’s stability contrasts sharply with Somalia’s ongoing struggles against al-Shabab insurgents. This distinction, coupled with its democratic track record, forms the cornerstone of Somaliland’s argument for recognition.
Abdullahi’s presidency signals a renewed focus on achieving this goal while addressing domestic priorities. As Somaliland continues its quest for sovereignty, its political and economic strategies in the coming years will be closely watched both regionally and globally.
Looking Ahead
The swearing-in of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi marks the beginning of a new chapter for Somaliland. With his pledge to strengthen foreign policy and review strategic agreements, Abdullahi’s leadership could steer the region closer to its aspirations of international recognition while addressing the challenges at home.