He calls for a clear policy on the conference and similar forums
By M.A. Egge
The Deputy Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Somaliland, Yasin Mohamed Yusuf, has said that the main objectives of the Heritage Institute Forum Conference held in Djibouti are clearly against the essence, issues and independence of Somaliland, and a clear-cut policy needs to be specified and established as concerns the forum and similar ones in future.
The Deputy Minister of Education and Science took a swipe at the forum which featured sessions on research and history of the Horn of Africa, as well as the economy and politics of Somaliland, Ethiopia and Somalia.
The Deputy Minister said that the conference was conveying two different messages, which he said were to launch a direct attack on the MoU agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia and also to establish rules to tether some countries in the Horn of Africa, including Somaliland.
The Deputy Minister added that the history presented at the conference was one against Ethiopia, which they accuse of having perpetrating wars from time immemorial along the coast of Somaliland with the intent of disseminating lies about the real happenings in the past.
Speaking on the matter, Minister Yasin said, “The objectives and contents of the Heritage Conference were to attack the MoU between Somaliland and Ethiopia and to deny the existence of the Somaliland Cause and Independence, hence obliterate the essence of Somaliland-hood. In addition, the conference aim was creating and formulating laws of special interest that were intended to tether some countries by putting Somaliland out of the picture”.
The Deputy Minister clarified that the research presented there was false and biased, and aimed at a specific intention, and he also noted that they deliberately left out parts of real history by hiding it.
He said that they intended to openly attack the MoU and mislead the public with this historical information. He also noted that their sessions discussed international laws and they attacked the Somaliland-Ethiopia maritime agreement, which made wrongly Somalia inviolable and inalienable giving it territories that are not her’s.
The Deputy Minister also pointed out that during these sessions, the existence and independence of Somaliland were denied, as well as the existential facts of two separate countries that once united was obliterated.
Same is the fact that out of the picture was the fact that Somaliland indeed re-asserted her independence and sovereignty.
In conclusion, the Deputy Minister suggested that the Somaliland community at home and abroad be vigilant against false histories being presented at such forums with the intentions denying the existence and sovereignty of Somaliland.
He also called on the government to have a clear policy on meetings and conferences that undermine the independence and factual history of Somaliland.
The Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Somaliland, Shukri Haji Ismail Bandare, has highlighted the importance of caring for the environment, and has called on the community to protect their environment.
Minister Shukri Bandare added that “our entire life depends on protecting and appreciating our environment hence huge losses would be incurred if the environment is not protected”.
She recalled the many recurring droughts that have had a severe impact on our environment due to degradation cautioning that it has to be mitigated at any cost.
She underscored the fact that all life depended on the environment and once it is degraded, all forms of life perish thereafter.
The mobile app is specifically designed to simplify financial management for small businesses, allowing users to digitally record credits and debits for accurate financial tracking.
Hafide, a digital bookkeeping platform based in Somaliland, has expanded to Ethiopia. By launching in Ethiopia, the company aims to streamline financial management and empower SMEs with tools to drive economic growth, tapping into a market where traditional bookkeeping remains prevalent. Currently free to use, the platform’s founders plan to implement a subscription-based model after establishing a significant user base.
Founded in June 2023 by three friends, Sulekha Yusuf (CEO), Jimale Abdi (CTO), and Muhiyadin Ismail (CFO), Hafide is designed to facilitate the digitization of business processes across Africa, enabling users to manage their finances digitally and transition away from traditional pen-and-paper accounting methods.
“Businesses can use the platform to record their transactions, including income, expenses, and debts,” says Jimale Abdi, cofounder and CTO of the platform.
The journey of Hafide began with two friends’ mutual interest. Jimale and Muhiyadin first met at Abaarso Tech University in 2016. After graduating in 2019, their shared curiosity for technology led them to co-found Tiriig Technology, a software development company. That entrepreneurial spirit grew even more elastic when they later met Sulekha during a vacation in Hargeisa. “Our paths crossed with Ayan while she was on vacation in Hargeisa, and together we launched Silicon Nomads, an initiative designed to help youth enter the tech industry,” Jimale told Shega.
In 2022, following the Waheen Market fire in Hargeisa, which destroyed countless small businesses, resulting in $2 billion in damages, the trio decided to co-found Hafide. “Many entrepreneurs lost not only their livelihoods but also their financial records, as they relied heavily on traditional pen-and-paper bookkeeping methods,” says the co-founder.
“Hafide,” meaning “Safeguard,” in their native language captures the platform’s core purpose, according to Jimale, which is to protect business data from unforeseen disasters. “Waheen’s harrowing tragedy inspired us to create a digital solution that allows businesses to safeguard their financial information and thrive in an increasingly digital world,” he stressed.
The development of Hafide took around eight months, with initial funding sourced from the founders themselves. Currently, the platform boasts over 2,400 users and is accessible in four languages: English, Amharic, Somali, and Swahili.
The mobile app is specifically designed to simplify financial management for small businesses, allowing users to digitally record credits and debits for accurate financial tracking. With just a few clicks, they can generate detailed reports on cash flow, showcasing income and expenses daily or monthly. The platform also provides support resources and customer service to assist users with any query or issues they may encounter.
By replacing outdated bookkeeping methods with modern technology, Hafide aims to become a leading bookkeeping solution for SMEs across Africa.
This digital bookkeeping company is also one of the 42 FinTech startups selected and currently participating in the UNDP Timbuktoo Fintech Accelerator Program, a pan-African initiative launched by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
After intensive training, including a week-long bootcamp in Lagos, Nigeria, and a month-long virtual program, Hafide is gearing up for the final pitch next week. A successful pitch could secure $25,000 in equity-free funding, and perhaps the team will have a chance to finally pin down the biggest challenge in their startup journey, fundraising.
In a bid to lead the African Union Commission (AUC), Rt. Raila Amolo Odinga, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and a lifelong Pan-Africanist, has outlined his transformative vision for Africa’s future. His comprehensive agenda, built on decades of experience as a leader and advocate for Pan-African ideals, focuses on eight key priorities aimed at tackling Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Read his 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 for Africa’s transformation here.
Economic Transformation
Raila Odinga emphasizes the need for sustainable and equitable economic growth to drive Africa’s development. His strategy includes creating an enabling environment for businesses, attracting investments, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. By advancing industrialization, supporting manufacturing, and enhancing trade, Odinga envisions an Africa where jobs are abundant, poverty is reduced, and living standards are significantly improved.
Enhancing Intra-African Trade
Highlighting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a transformative opportunity, Odinga plans to advocate for open skies, harmonized policies, and infrastructure development to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and people. By breaking down barriers to trade, he aims to position Africa as a dominant player in the global economy.
Financial Independence
To reduce reliance on external funding, Odinga stresses the importance of mobilizing domestic resources. He intends to rally African Union Member States and engage the private sector to finance sustainable development. Additionally, he advocates for reforming the global financial architecture to ensure Africa’s equitable participation in economic decision-making.
Gender Equity and Equality
Odinga identifies women and girls as the demographic most vulnerable to Africa’s challenges. He pledges to champion initiatives that address gender-based violence, discrimination, and marginalization. By prioritizing education, health, food security, and economic empowerment for women, he asserts that Africa’s Agenda 2063 cannot be realized without achieving gender equality.
Agricultural Transformation
Recognizing the importance of food security, Odinga advocates for a transformative shift in Africa’s agricultural practices. His focus includes modernizing agriculture, promoting sustainable food production, and fostering rural livelihoods. He also commits to ensuring Africa’s food systems remain independent and protected from predatory practices while enhancing market access and value addition.
Climate Action
Odinga is committed to mobilizing support for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, ensuring African nations are equipped to address climate-induced shocks. He plans to promote renewable energy, climate-smart economic strategies, and investments in sustainable practices, while positioning Africa as a global leader in climate action and justice.
Continental Integration
Unity is central to Odinga’s vision for Africa. He pledges to strengthen regional integration and cooperation by supporting Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and advancing initiatives for infrastructure development, trade, and innovation. His goal is to foster a united and prosperous Africa.
Peace and Security
Stability is a cornerstone of development, and Odinga places conflict resolution and institutional strengthening at the forefront of his agenda. He plans to work closely with African leaders to address the root causes of instability, create functional governance systems, and ensure a conducive environment for progress.
A Vision for Africa’s Future
Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the AUC Chairperson position reflects his unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism and his desire to usher in an African century marked by prosperity, unity, and global influence. His vision combines Africa’s natural resources, human capital, and youth energy with transformative leadership to secure a brighter future for the continent.
This vision promises to address Africa’s challenges while positioning the continent as a global economic and political leader. As the race for the AUC Chairperson continues, Odinga’s robust and inclusive agenda sets a high standard for transformative leadership in Africa.
U.S. Senator Jim Risch, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has expressed optimism that the Biden administration may finally be moving away from its longstanding “One Somalia” policy. His remarks followed a landmark visit by a high-profile U.S. delegation to Somaliland, an event seen as a potential turning point in U.S.-Somaliland relations.
“The Biden administration may finally be moving past its flawed ‘One Somalia’ policy. With a lot of time and funding wasted on this failed approach, it is time to be more pragmatic in our Somalia policy,” Senator Risch shared in a post on X, formerly Twitter, underscoring the need for a results-driven approach.
Adding to this, Dr. J. Peter Pham, a prominent African affairs expert and former U.S. Special Envoy for the Sahel, weighed in on the visit’s broader implications. He remarked, “The next Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Risch, sees the U.S. delegation visiting Somaliland as a hopeful sign of the Biden administration ‘finally moving past its flawed One Somalia policy.’ If not, a total Somalia policy review under former President Donald Trump will assure America’s interests.” Dr. Pham also shared his insights via X, formerly Twitter.
Somaliland’s Strategic and Democratic Value
The U.S. delegation, led by Ambassador Richard H. Riley and Major General Brian Cashman, engaged with outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi and President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro. This visit followed Somaliland’s peaceful presidential election, a milestone that bolstered the region’s reputation as a beacon of democratic governance in the Horn of Africa.
Since declaring independence in 1991, Somaliland has consistently demonstrated stability and democratic resilience, distinguishing itself from Somalia’s persistent challenges. Its strategic location along the Gulf of Aden, a critical maritime route, further underscores its importance in regional geopolitics.
A Pragmatic Shift in U.S. Policy?
The Biden administration’s engagement with Somaliland aligns with growing calls in Washington to rethink the “One Somalia” policy. Both Senator Risch and Dr. Pham have emphasized the need for a more pragmatic strategy, one that acknowledges Somaliland’s stability and democratic progress.
Dr. Pham’s comments underscore the stakes: should the Biden administration fail to pivot, a future Trump administration may undertake a comprehensive review of Somalia policy to prioritize U.S. interests in the region.
The Path Forward
The U.S. delegation’s visit has sparked hope for deeper collaboration between the U.S. and Somaliland, focusing on areas like security, trade, and development. While formal recognition of Somaliland’s independence remains uncertain, this engagement reflects growing acknowledgment of its unique status and strategic importance.
As the U.S. reexamines its approach to the Horn of Africa, Somaliland’s democratic achievements and geostrategic relevance position it as a potential key partner in advancing regional stability and prosperity.
Somaliland, a land of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, holds immense potential to become a global tourism destination. From its pristine beaches along the Gulf of Aden to the majestic Daallo Mountains, from the awe-inspiring rock art of Laas Geel to the vibrant traditions of its people, Somaliland has all the ingredients to attract millions of visitors. Yet, the world remains largely unaware of its treasures, and the country’s tourism industry remains underdeveloped. To unlock this potential, the government must take decisive steps to promote Somaliland on the international stage and create an enabling environment for private-sector investment.
The beaches of Somaliland are a hidden gem, offering miles of untouched coastline. Berbera, with its golden sands and turquoise waters, rivals some of the world’s most popular beach destinations. Despite this, infrastructure remains minimal, and there are few facilities to accommodate international tourists. Proper development of resorts, eco-friendly lodges, and beach activities like diving and snorkeling could transform these areas into hubs for coastal tourism, generating revenue and creating jobs for local communities.
Equally striking are Somaliland’s mountains and highlands, such as the Daallo Mountains in Sanaag. These rugged terrains, with their dense forests and breathtaking views, are ideal for adventure tourism, including hiking, trekking, and wildlife exploration. Developing eco-tourism in these regions could attract nature enthusiasts and conservationists while preserving the natural environment. However, such initiatives require investment in infrastructure, including access roads, guided tours, and accommodations that cater to international standards.
Somaliland also boasts a rich history that spans millennia. The Laas Geel cave paintings, some of the oldest and best-preserved rock art in Africa, offer a glimpse into the lives of ancient civilizations. Historical sites such as the ruins of Zeila, a key trading post in the medieval era, provide a fascinating look into the region’s role in global trade. These sites, if properly preserved and promoted, have the potential to draw history buffs, archaeologists, and cultural tourists from across the world.
Beyond its natural and historical assets, Somaliland’s vibrant traditions and culture stand out as a unique draw for tourists. The region is renowned for its oral poetry, often considered the heartbeat of Somali culture, and its traditional music and dances, which captivate audiences with their rhythm and storytelling. Festivals celebrating these traditions, such as the Hargeisa International Book Fair, are already gaining recognition, but more can be done to promote cultural tourism. Encouraging performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences would allow visitors to immerse themselves in Somaliland’s heritage, forging meaningful connections between locals and tourists.
To turn these opportunities into reality, the government of Somaliland must take bold steps to establish the country as a tourist destination. First, a comprehensive tourism strategy is needed to market Somaliland’s attractions to the world. This includes creating promotional campaigns targeting key markets in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the United States. Partnerships with international tour operators and influencers could further amplify the message, showcasing Somaliland as a safe and welcoming destination.
Second, infrastructure development must become a priority. Roads leading to key sites need improvement, and international airports like Berbera must be upgraded to handle increased traffic. Visa policies should be streamlined to make it easier for tourists to visit, including the introduction of e-visas and reduced fees.
Third, the government must foster partnerships with private-sector investors, both domestic and international. Offering tax incentives, land leases, and other forms of support could encourage businesses to invest in the development of hotels, restaurants, and tourist activities. Collaborations with the hospitality and travel sectors would ensure that tourists have access to high-quality services that meet global expectations.
Finally, education and training in tourism and hospitality should be prioritized. Establishing vocational programs to train local guides, hotel staff, and other industry professionals would ensure that the sector develops sustainably. Local communities should be included in decision-making processes, ensuring that tourism benefits everyone and respects the cultural and environmental integrity of Somaliland.
The untapped potential of Somaliland’s tourism industry represents a golden opportunity for economic growth and international recognition. By leveraging its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, Somaliland can carve out a niche in the global tourism market. However, this vision requires a concerted effort by the government to create an environment that attracts and supports investment.
Somaliland has the resources to thrive as a tourist destination. All it needs is the determination to act. If the government commits to this path, it will not only boost the local economy but also place Somaliland firmly on the map as one of the world’s most unique and captivating destinations.
As Somaliland begins a new chapter under its recently elected government, there is an urgent need to prioritize vocational education and training as a cornerstone for developing a sustainable tourism and hospitality industry. With its unspoiled beaches, ancient landmarks, and vibrant cultural heritage, Somaliland has the potential to become a major global tourist destination. However, this vision can only be realized if the new government takes decisive action to invest in the sector by equipping its workforce with the necessary skills.
Tourism is a labor-intensive industry that relies on skilled professionals to deliver exceptional experiences to visitors. Without the expertise of trained hotel managers, tour guides, chefs, and customer service providers, Somaliland will struggle to meet the expectations of international tourists. Vocational education is the foundation for building this skilled workforce, ensuring that the tourism sector can thrive while preserving the country’s natural and cultural resources.
The government must immediately include the establishment of vocational training centers as a top national priority. These centers should focus on practical, hands-on training in key areas such as hospitality management, culinary arts, eco-tourism, and sustainable tourism practices. Graduates of these programs would be equipped to meet global standards, enhancing Somaliland’s reputation as a welcoming and professional destination for travelers.
Collaboration with the private sector is essential. Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators depend on skilled workers to maintain high service standards and grow their businesses. By partnering with vocational education programs, the private sector can provide internships, on-the-job training, and financial support for students. Such partnerships benefit businesses by creating a steady supply of qualified employees while contributing to the overall development of the tourism industry.
Educational institutions must also align their programs with international best practices. The government should facilitate partnerships between local training centers and global organizations to bring expertise, resources, and accreditation to Somaliland. Certifications recognized internationally would give Somaliland’s workforce credibility on the global stage, attracting tourists and investors alike.
The role of local communities cannot be overstated. Vocational training should be inclusive, creating opportunities for women, youth, and marginalized groups to actively participate in and benefit from tourism development. By involving local communities, the industry can ensure that tourism revenues are distributed equitably and that cultural and environmental preservation remains at the forefront of development.
The international community also has a role to play. Donor organizations, development agencies, and tourism experts can provide technical assistance, funding, and capacity-building support for vocational education initiatives. These collaborations would strengthen Somaliland’s tourism infrastructure and connect it to global markets.
The new government must take a leadership role in creating an enabling environment for all stakeholders. This includes allocating funding for vocational training centers, providing subsidies for institutions already offering tourism-related programs, and offering incentives to private-sector investors. Streamlining visa processes, improving infrastructure, and promoting Somaliland internationally are also critical steps to support the growth of the industry.
For Somaliland to establish itself as a top-tier tourism destination, the government must act quickly and decisively. By making vocational education and training a national priority, the new administration can create a skilled workforce capable of driving the tourism industry forward. This investment would not only generate significant economic benefits—through job creation and revenue generation—but also position Somaliland as a unique and attractive destination on the global stage.
The potential is enormous, but time is of the essence. The newly elected government has a unique opportunity to set Somaliland on a path toward sustainable tourism growth. Including vocational education as a top priority in its national agenda is not just a strategic decision—it is a responsibility that will shape the country’s future for generations to come.
Debating Ideas reflects the values and editorial ethos of the African Arguments book series, publishing engaged, often radical, scholarship, original and activist writing from within the African continent and beyond. It offers debates and engagements, contexts and controversies, and reviews and responses flowing from the African Arguments books. It is edited and managed by the International African Institute, hosted at SOAS University of London, the owners of the book series of the same name.
The authors served as international election observers during Somaliland’s 2024 presidential election. This piece reflects their firsthand experiences and insights gathered from observing the electoral process in various locations across the country. Their perspectives are informed by direct engagement with polling stations, political actors, and the broader democratic environment in Somaliland.
Somaliland held its fourth presidential election under a one-person, one-vote system on 13 November 2024. This reaffirmed its status as the Horn of Africa’s most genuine democracy. As citizens of a de facto independent but internationally unrecognized state, Somalilanders turned out to vote in shaping their country’s future, which has been politically divorced from Somalia since 1991. Polling stations we visited in cities like Berbera, Borama, Gabiley, and Hargeisa were orderly and well-staffed, with diligent National Electoral Commission (NEC) workers – many of them women – ensuring a smooth process.
While the day was largely peaceful and celebratory, minor issues such as underage voters and occasional long lines highlighted areas for improvement. The election was a turning point, with opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Cirro) and his Waddani party claiming victory over incumbent President Muse Bihi and his Kulmiye party. Somaliland’s unique three-party system offered voters clear choices about the nation’s direction and underscored the maturity of its democratic processes. It showcased the robust role an independent and legitimate NEC like Somaliland’s can play. It also revealed the complexities and misconceptions surrounding the role of international election observers.
Political role of election observers
International election observers are invited to observe elections precisely to exercise political agency in ensuring democratic integrity while remaining impartial in terms of who wins. This aligns with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and Code of Conduct for International Election Observers commemorated at the UN in 2005, and now endorsed by 54 intergovernmental and international organizations. For example, it conforms to the principle that genuine democratic elections are an expression of sovereignty belonging to the people, with free elections serving to resolve political competition peacefully and maintain stability (Declaration, no. 1).
In Somaliland’s election, four teams of international observers from Africa, Europe, and North America were invited. By their very presence, observers serve as visible witnesses to the democratic process, and can help to deter ballot-stuffing, fraud, or other anti-democratic practices. Observers are impartial, but their impact is not neutral; their role is inherently political, as it can influence perceptions of legitimacy and help set expectations for the accountability of political actors. This responsibility underscores the impartial yet influential role of observers in assessing electoral processes, offering recommendations for improvement, and promoting public confidence and participation (Declaration, no. 4).
In Somaliland, observers also had the unique opportunity to meet with the country’s most influential political figures, including leaders of the three political parties and President Muse Bihi. These private, question-and-answer sessions further underscored our role as more than passive observers: we were active participants in shaping how the election would be perceived, both domestically and internationally. Such activities are supported by the principle that observers should engage with political competitors to evaluate electoral integrity and make recommendations to safeguard the process (Declaration, no. 15).
Somaliland’s politicians understood this dynamic well. All parties recognized that a successful, credible election was essential for advancing their broader goal of achieving international recognition as an independent state. This heightened the stakes of Somaliland’s election, and our mission, reinforcing the critical role observers play – not only in documenting elections but in potentially influencing political behaviour.
A balancing act: impartiality and influence
While observers aim to remain impartial, neutrality does not erase the political dimensions of their role. Governments, like Somaliland’s, often invite observers to bolster their international credibility and affirm their commitment to democracy. Observers, in turn, act as guarantors of legitimacy, but this responsibility carries the risk of misinterpretation that may lead to inaction and malaise. The Code of Conduct states international election observers “must not express or exhibit any bias or preference in relation to national authorities, political parties, candidates, referenda issues or in relation to any contentious issues in the election process. Observers also must not conduct any activity that could be reasonably perceived as favoring or providing partisan gain for any political competitor in the host country, such as wearing or displaying any partisan symbols, colors, banners or accepting anything of value from political competitors” (Code of Conduct, no. 4).
Kenyan observer team at Hargeisa Cultural Centre, 12 November 2024. Photo by Elections Observation team
As election day approached, some of us grew concerned that political tensions could escalate if the results were disputed. Two observer teams proposed a joint statement urging the three main parties to publicly reaffirm their commitment to the NEC’s Code of Conduct, call on their supporters to remain calm, and respect the official results. This proactive step aimed to pre-empt unrest and reinforce public trust in the democratic process. This action would have been congruent with the Declaration’s mandate for impartial recommendations to improve processes and support non-violence and stability. Specifically, “International election observation missions are expected to issue timely, accurate and impartial statements to the public … presenting their findings, conclusions and any appropriate recommendations they determine could help improve election related processes” (Declaration, para. 7).
However, not all observer teams agreed. Some argued that the political environment appeared stable and that such a statement might imply instability or raise doubts about the parties’ intentions. Others worried it could blur the line between observation and intervention, putting observers at the centre of the process. But this contradicted our mandate whereby observers are empowered to engage with all stakeholders, evaluate challenges, and promote the peaceful resolution of disputes, consistent with international principles (Declaration, para. 5).
The reluctance of two of the four teams revealed a fundamental misunderstanding of our role. International election observers are not apolitical bystanders. As impartial actors, we are tasked with ensuring that the election reflects the will of the people and that all parties adhere to democratic norms. Encouraging parties to uphold commitments to non-violence and peaceful transitions is central to our mission and underscores the inherently political nature of our work. Receiving those assurances in private is one thing, publicly proclaiming the parties’ adherence to Somaliland’s Code of Conduct, in this case, and commitment to non-violence and peaceful transition of power is quite another.
Dual roles of international election observers
Our mission in Somaliland highlighted the dual nature of international election observers. While impartial in terms of political outcomes, we are political actors in shaping perceptions and promoting democratic integrity. Our presence can influence the behaviour of political parties, voters, and institutions, particularly in countries with young or fragile democracies like Somaliland. This balance is explicitly acknowledged in the Declaration, which positions international observers as impartial evaluators working to protect and promote democratic principles (Declaration, para. 6).
This balance between observing and intervening is delicate but necessary and is supported by mandating cooperation with electoral authorities and encouraging public reporting to bolster trust and transparency (Declaration, para. 7). Observers must be willing to navigate these tensions to strengthen the foundations of democracy. Somaliland’s election demonstrated that this path requires accountability, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to peace.
Impartiality does not mean avoiding influence; it means using influence shaped by a constructive and appropriate set of political ideas to protect and promote democratic principles. The African Union (AU) has a mandate that aligns closely with this ethos, that emphasizes the promotion of democratic governance and conflict resolution as part of its pan-African stride toward stability and prosperity. Its principles of solidarity, unity, and collective responsibility – echoed in the philosophy of Ubuntu, which values shared humanity and mutual respect – can serve as a constructive framework for the work of election observers. These ideals encourage proactive engagement where necessary, ensuring that influence is wielded to promote peace and democratic integrity.
As authors, we believe such visions and their underlying principles would contribute meaningfully to the debate over the role of international election observers and build on the foundation of the Declaration of Principles. This could possibly shape future election observations and shape their role to better promote positive and inclusive electoral outcomes.
Kenyan observer team, Gabiley, 13 November 2024. Photo by Elections Observation team
The balance between observing and intervening is delicate but essential. International election observers must navigate these tensions to strengthen democratic practices and institutions. Somaliland’s election demonstrated that this approach demands accountability, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to peace. By walking this tightrope, international election observers play a pivotal role in supporting democracy, helping to ensure elections are free and fair, and ultimately helping nations like Somaliland build a more stable and legitimate political future.
The National Police Chief, Major General Mohamed Adan Saqadi (Daba-gale), inspected some of the police stations in the capital Hargeisa, to check the general condition of the police work and the suspects held in the cells of the police stations.
During his inspection tours, the commander listened to a report from the prisoners, and also directed the officers and detectives at the stations to provide efficient service and general welfare of the incarcerated.
He ordered that they should be shown justice and handled humanely with care.
He had a rapport with those in the police cells who were candid enough to speak with him freely on their plight and associated cases.
He directed that their general welfare should be taken into account and treated fairly.
This inspection tour by the police chief comes at a time when a new administration is taking over in the country following the triumph of the WADDANI party and its flag-bearer Dr. Abdirahman Irro coming in as the next President of the Republic of Somaliland, succeeding his predecessor the incumbent President Musa Bihi.
It is indeed a time where vigilance takes precedence and security is bolstered.
The President-elect of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi (Irro) met on Tuesday with a large delegation led by the US Ambassador Richard H. Riley, accompanied by top AFRICOM commander Major General Brian Cashman and other military officials, namely Colonel Carl Benander, Andrew Kelly, political advisor, Colonel Brian Luti, Matthew Cassidy and Chadwick Forbes.
The President-elect said that he had an in-depth discussion with the delegation on how to further strengthen the relationship between the Republic of Somaliland and the US.
President-elect Dr. Abdirahman Cirro noted that the delegation delivered a congratulatory message from the US government.
He noted that the elections in the Republic of Somaliland held on November 13 were elections that have drawn the attention of the world even more, and would definitely attract international investment opportunities.
