Somaliland Elections Begin Amid Intense Political Competition
Somaliland’s national elections have officially commenced today, as reported by SomaliRadio Dublin. The election campaign kicked off with the political party Barwaaqo taking the lead. A total of 10 political associations are competing for national party status, with only three expected to emerge as official parties. These three will replace the current national parties, who are also vying to retain their status in the political arena.
Reports indicate a fierce rivalry between the incumbent president Muse Bihi Abdi and the leading opposition candidate Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), with both enjoying significant support, making this a highly competitive election.
Additionally, Somaliland recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ethiopia, granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea. This development has sparked objections from the Somali government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose administration, supported by ATMIS and UN-backed forces, considers Somaliland a part of Somalia. On the other hand, Ethiopia views Somaliland as a self-governing region, formerly a British protectorate, that has chosen its own path.
This election holds significant implications for the future political direction of Somaliland and the wider Horn of Africa region.
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