Somalia: New chapter in Somaliland as new leader takes over

HARGEISA, Somalia - Abdirahman Irro assumed office as the leader of Somalia's northern breakaway region of Somaliland, ending the 7-year reign of Muse Bihi Abdi, a former Somalia Air Force officer who is leaving office after signing a controversial access to sea agreement with Ethiopia.

At Hargeisa on Thursday, Irro, the leader of the Waddani party, took over in a rather smooth transition, a month after winning the elections. His party Waddani and UCID party — which is yet to declare allegiance, enjoy a supermajority in parliament.

At 69, Irro managed to score over 60% of the votes cast by almost a million voters, and his close challenger, Muse Bihi, was quick to concede defeat while promising a smooth transition. The handover has been praised internationally.

In his speech, Irro pledged to prioritize national unity, good governance, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts in regions like Sool, Sanaag, and Togdheer. He also committed to strengthening Somaliland's military to secure its borders and pursue international recognition for the breakaway territory.

"Today, we open a new chapter to build a united and democratic Somaliland, rooted in good governance, justice, and the rule of law," Irro said.

On his part, Muse Bihi praised the region for adhering to democratic principles by ushering in smooth regime transitions. He said national interests supersede personal endeavors in the quest for power.

"Somaliland has proven its democratic values, where power lies with the people, ensuring national interests prevail over individual ambitions."

The transition comes a day after Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud agreed to set aside their differences over the controversial agreement, pledging to find the best approach towards the 'realization of our potential' through formal channels.

A technical committee would be put in place to establish the best way the two countries would benefit from Ethiopia's quest to access the sea without violating Somalia's "territorial integrity and sovereignty " which has been borne of contention.

GAROWE ONLINE