Opposition Leader Abdullahi Wins Somaliland Presidency

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi secures victory with a focus on international recognition and economic reform.

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, known as 'Irro', won the presidency with 63.92% of the vote, defeating incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi.
The election was delayed twice since 2022 due to funding issues but was praised for its peaceful democratic process.
Abdullahi's victory signals a potential shift in Somaliland's approach to gaining international recognition, a longstanding goal since its 1991 declaration of independence.
A controversial maritime deal with Ethiopia, which has strained relations with Somalia, remains a critical issue for the new administration.
The incoming administration is expected to leverage Somaliland's strategic position and existing ties with the U.S. and Taiwan to advance its recognition efforts.