Electoral shake-up in Somaliland puts new leader at helm of unrecognized state
Opposition candidate wins big in Somalilandʼs latest presidential race with strong majority. The self-declared state faces new possibilities with leadership change as it continues push for global recognition
In a major political shift Abdirahman Cirro secured victory against incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi in Somalilands presidential election — winning with a decisive 64% of votes (while his opponent got just 35%)
The self-declared state which split from Somalia in early 90s hasnt gotten any formal recognition yet; however its strategic spot between Indian Ocean and Red Sea makes it important. The region with about 6 million people keeps working on its international standing: they made a deal with Ethiopia this year that could give them some land near coast
- Djiboutis leader sent good wishes on social media
- Somaliaʼs president talked about keeping talks going
- Ethiopiaʼs foreign office gave their congrats
This election is not a win or loss for the candidates; it was an election of unity and fraternity and pushing ahead the Somaliland nation
The new leader might change some things: theres talk about the Ethiopia dealʼs future; and maybe even closer ties with China (which could affect their friendship with Taiwan) Its worth noting that past Trump officials showed support for Somaliland; which might help them later
The region has stayed pretty calm for over 30 years — quite different from Somaliaʼs hard times. Now with Cirro in charge some experts think he might want to talk more with Somaliaʼs govt; but running things is different than just talking about them during campaign
