On Wednesday, voters in Somaliland headed to the polls in a historic election that could have profound implications for the region’s quest for international recognition. For nearly three decades, Somaliland has operated as a self-declared independent state, but despite its de facto autonomy, it has struggled to gain recognition from the global community.
Declared independent in 1991 after breaking away from Somalia’s central government, Somaliland has been unable to secure official recognition from any country, which has left its six million people facing limitations, including restricted access to international financial systems and difficulties in travel.
As voters cast their ballots in the presidential election, the region is closer than ever to potentially achieving international recognition. A preliminary deal signed earlier this year with neighboring Ethiopia has sparked hope that recognition could be within reach. The agreement, which grants Ethiopia access to a strip of Somaliland’s coastal land in exchange for diplomatic recognition, has raised expectations in the capital, Hargeisa, where the government is also hopeful that the incoming U.S. administration, under President-elect Donald Trump, may lend its support.
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The incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi, who has held office since 2017, is seeking re-election against the opposition’s candidate, Abdirahman Cirro. The election, initially scheduled for 2022, was delayed after lawmakers voted to extend Bihi’s term by two years. Despite the delay, both candidates have voiced their commitment to the deal with Ethiopia, and Somaliland’s representative to Kenya, Mohamed A. Mohamoud, confirmed that the agreement will be finalized post-election, irrespective of the outcome.
As polling stations closed across the region at 6 p.m. (1500 GMT), reports indicated a smooth voting process with no significant issues. Voters, including many women in vibrant headscarves, could be seen waiting patiently in line to cast their votes. President Bihi, after voting, expressed hopes for a peaceful and democratic election process, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful transfer of power.
The election is not just a choice between two candidates but a critical moment for Somaliland’s future. The outcome could pave the way for greater international support and recognition, especially if the deal with Ethiopia moves forward. However, the agreement has caused tension between Somaliland and Somalia, with Mogadishu voicing strong opposition to the pact. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s engagement with Somaliland has strained its relations with Somalia, aligning Addis Ababa more closely with regional rivals, including Egypt and Eritrea.
The coming days will be crucial for Somaliland, as the election results unfold and the world watches to see whether the region will finally take its place on the international stage.
