Somaliland Elects Opposition Leader Irro as New President

:Abdirahman Irro wins Somaliland’s 2024 presidential election with 64% votes,
signalling change. Over 1M registered voters participated peacefully

Somaliland’s presidential election, held on November 13, 2024, resulted in a decisive victory for Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of the Wadani Party.

Preliminary results indicated that Irro received approximately 64% of the votes, with Muse Bihi Abdi, the incumbent president from the Kulmiye Party, trailing at 35%.

The third candidate, Faysal Ali Warabe of the UCID Party, garnered less than 1% of the votes.
This election, initially scheduled for 2022, faced delays due to economic and political challenges but proceeded peacefully with over 1 million registered voters participating in over 2,000 polling stations.

Key Issues and Electoral Dynamics

The election was a referendum on governance, with voters expressing dissatisfaction with Muse Bihi Abdi’s administration, particularly regarding economic stagnation, rising unemployment, and issues of democratic space.

Irro’s Wadani Party campaigned on promises of economic reforms, improving international
recognition for Somaliland, and fostering greater inclusivity in governance.

Voter Turnout and Observations

Despite logistical challenges, approximately 680,000 voters cast their ballots. Observers from
ten nations praised the National Electoral Commission (NEC) for conducting a transparent
process.

No major security incidents were reported, showcasing Somaliland’s commitment to democratic principles.

Significance of the Win

Irro’s victory marks a significant shift in Somaliland’s political landscape.
As the leader of the opposition, his administration is expected to focus on addressing
longstanding economic and social grievances while seeking greater international legitimacy forSomaliland, which has remained diplomatically isolated since declaring independence in 1991.

The peaceful transfer of power further reinforces Somaliland’s reputation as a beacon of
democracy in the Horn of Africa​ The official results are expected to be announced by November 21, 2024, cementing Irro’s position as Somaliland’s new