Hargeisa—Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi ‘Irro’ has been declared the new President of Somaliland, bringing an end to the long-standing leadership of the Kulmiye party. His election marks a significant political shift in the self-declared republic, as Irro assumes leadership under the Waddani party banner.
According to official results announced by the Somaliland National Independent Electoral Commission (SLNEC), Irro secured a resounding victory with 63% of the popular vote. His closest rival, outgoing President Muse Abdi Bihi of the Kulmiye party, garnered 34.81%. The decisive margin reflects widespread support for Irro’s platform and signals a shift in the political direction of Somaliland.
A Veteran Politician with a Legacy of Service
Born in 1956, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi ‘Irro’ has been a central figure in Somaliland’s political scene for over two decades. His political career began in 2002 when he co-founded the Justice and Development Party (UCID) alongside Faysal Ali Warabe. He played a key role in shaping the party’s early policies and political vision.
In 2005, Irro transitioned into parliamentary politics, winning a seat as a Member of Parliament representing the Sahil region. That same year, he achieved a milestone by being elected Speaker of the Lower House, a position he held until 2017. During his tenure, Irro earned a reputation for fostering dialogue and navigating complex legislative challenges.
Presidential Ambitions and the Rise of Waddani
Irro’s ambitions for the presidency first emerged in 2017 when he contested against Muse Abdi Bihi under the newly formed Waddani party. Despite a strong campaign, Irro lost that election. However, his loss did not diminish his influence or his determination to bring change to Somaliland’s political landscape.
Over the years, Irro and the Waddani party have steadily built a platform centered on economic reform, youth empowerment, and international recognition for Somaliland. These efforts culminated in his 2024 electoral success, signaling a new era of governance for the region.
A Five-Year Term Ahead
As stipulated by Somaliland’s constitution, Irro will serve a five-year term as president. His victory comes at a pivotal moment for Somaliland, which continues to seek international recognition as an independent state while navigating internal challenges such as economic development, security, and democratic reforms.
Irro’s administration is expected to prioritize unifying the country’s political factions, addressing unemployment among the youth, and enhancing Somaliland’s diplomatic efforts on the global stage. His leadership will also be critical in ensuring that Somaliland’s democratic processes remain robust and inclusive.
With this victory, Irro ushers in a period of hope and transformation for Somaliland, as citizens and observers alike anticipate how his presidency will shape the nation’s future.
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