Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, a former parliament speaker, won the Somaliland presidential election held on November 13, securing 64% of the vote. Incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi received 34%, according to official results announced on Tuesday by Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission.
The victory raises questions about the future of a controversial deal between Somaliland and Ethiopia, which would allow Ethiopia to establish a military base and commercial facilities along Somaliland’s coast on the Gulf of Aden. In return, Somaliland would gain an unspecified share in Ethiopian Airlines, and Ethiopia would consider recognizing Somaliland as an independent nation. Somalia has opposed the deal, arguing it violates its territorial integrity.
Irro, who ran on a platform of economic revitalization, national unity, and political stability, has not yet stated whether he will honor the agreement. His incoming administration is expected to review the deal after taking office in mid-December. Some of his key allies have voiced opposition to the accord, adding further uncertainty to its future.
Despite Somaliland declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, it remains unrecognized by the international community as a sovereign state.
