MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a recent electoral outcome, the leader of the opposition in Somaliland emerged victorious, as announced by the electoral commission on Tuesday.
Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, representing the prominent Waddani Party, garnered over 50% of the cast votes, signaling a significant shift in the region’s political landscape.
Meanwhile, incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party finished in second place with slightly more than 30% of the votes, as he sought to secure a second term following seven years of leadership.

The election had experienced delays on two separate occasions since 2022, primarily due to funding challenges and other logistical issues.
Somaliland, which proclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991 during a period marked by conflict, has managed to establish its own government, currency, and security systems, despite not receiving recognition from the international community.
Throughout the years, the region has developed a politically stable environment, standing in stark contrast to the ongoing security difficulties faced by Somalia.

Recently, political tensions have escalated between Somaliland and Somalia following Somaliland’s agreement with neighboring Ethiopia, which allowed Somaliland access to the Indian Ocean in return for recognition.
Somalia has expressed concerns, accusing Ethiopia of threatening its territorial integrity, further complicating the political landscape in the Horn of Africa.