Voting is underway in Somaliland’s delayed presidential election, with voters turning out in large numbers to decide on their next leader in the self-declared state that has operated independently from Somalia since 1991. The election, initially set for 2022, was postponed for two years due to economic challenges, but more than one million voters are now expected to cast their ballots at over 2,000 polling stations.
Incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party is seeking a second term, with a focus on securing international recognition for Somaliland, which has maintained its own government, currency, and security forces despite a lack of global recognition. “Our national interest and government will succeed when we peacefully cast our ballots and when we count those ballots peacefully,” he said after voting.
Challenging Bihi Abdi are opposition candidates Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Waddani Party, who has emphasized democratic reforms and social cohesion, and Faisal Ali Warabe of the Justice and Welfare Party, who supports forming a national unity government. Abdullahi has campaigned for change and improved governance, while Warabe has pushed for policies to strengthen national unity amid growing economic concerns.
For years, Somaliland has been praised for its relative stability, contrasting sharply with the insecurity in Somalia. However, recent challenges—such as limited job opportunities and rising economic pressures—have fueled public demand for strong leadership. “The long lines at polling stations show a population demanding decisive leadership to address the region’s growing list of challenges,” said Mohamed Husein Gaas of the Raad Peace Research Institute.
Political tensions with Somalia have recently escalated following a new agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia, which gives Somaliland access to the Indian Ocean in exchange for potential recognition by Ethiopia. Somalia has condemned the agreement, viewing it as a threat to its territorial integrity.
This election marks Somaliland’s fourth presidential vote, underscoring the region’s commitment to democratic governance despite setbacks. The presence of international observers from 28 countries signals global interest in the outcome, which could impact the region’s stability and Somaliland’s ongoing quest for formal international recognition.