Former Somali Finance Minister Abdirahman Duale Bayle from Awdal region, along with several prominent political figures, has officially joined Somaliland’s opposition party, Waddani, just weeks ahead of the November elections. Bayle, who previously supported the idea of ‘Greater Somalia,’ has now shifted his focus to Somaliland after years of service in the Somali federal government.
“We have chosen to align ourselves with this party and urge the people of Somaliland to vote for Waddani. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro is the leader who can truly guide this nation,” said Bayle during a public announcement.
Bayle and his colleagues highlighted Waddani’s potential to lead Somaliland toward a brighter future, particularly by addressing key regional concerns, such as those of Awdal. They expressed confidence in Waddani’s capability to bring meaningful change, comparing Somaliland to a “rising sun” that requires dedicated leadership to fully realize its potential.
Waddani, which has gained considerable momentum in recent months, is now the largest opposition party in Somaliland. It is positioning itself to challenge the ruling Kulmiye Party for the presidency in the upcoming elections.
Just last week, two former deputy ministers—Mohamud Elmi Yusuf, ex-Deputy Minister of Education, and Nasir Aydid Mohamed, former Deputy Minister of Fisheries—resigned from the Kulmiye Party and joined Waddani. Both leaders emphasized the need for change in Somaliland, stressing that Irro’s leadership represents the best path forward.