The National Electoral Commission of the Republic of Somaliland today announced the interim results of the double elections it held on the 13th of November pending final certification of the Constitutional Court.
Quoting relevant articles of the Constitution and the Consolidated National Parties and Voter Registration Act No 91/2003, the Honorable Chairman of the National Commission Musa Hassan Yussuf, revealed the results.
He stated that the voter turnout for the national party status election was 646,188 voters which translated to 53% of the nationally registered voters. Out of this 630,812 (98%) were validated correct where 16,032 (2%) ballot papers were faulted one way or the other.
The commissioner, then, first announced what each of the three old national parties and the 7 political associations running won of the approved votes cast, as below:
Barwaaqo 16,852 votes
Rejo 2,083 votes
Horseed 87,218 votes
Talowadaag 6,080 votes
UCID 10,105 votes
KAAH 131,507 votes
Hillaac 59,569 votes
Shacabka 2,014 votes
WADDANI 216,284 votes
KULMIYE 108,100 votes
This meant that WADDANI, KAAH, and KULMIYE – in this order – won their places as national parties for the next 10 years as the law stipulated.
Then the Commissioner proceeded to announce for the results of the race for the presidency in which the incumbent President Musa Bihi Abdi ran on a KULMIYE ticket, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi ‘Irro’, for WADDANI, and Faisal Ali Hussein for UCID – each with his running mate as Vice President.
Commissioner Musa announced that voters who turned out for the presidential election were 674,863 of which 638,126 were approved with 9,528 votes found wanting, spoiled.
Here is how each presidential candidate and VP fared by party name in the run:
• WADDANI 407,908 votes 63.92%
• KULMIYE 225,519 votes 34.81%
• UCID 4,699 votes 0.74%
Thus Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi and his Vice-president-elect, Mohamed Ahmed Ali, were declared the winners of the race for the presidential Palace.
The Chairman hoped that each of the runners, as well as, the political parties and political associations would gracefully accept the results announced and concede wins for the successful emergers.
The Commission Chairman sincerely thanked the incumbent President, His Excellency Musa Bihi Abdi, who, he said, never interfered in the election process although he was holding the purse strings that bankrolled it.
“My most sincere appreciation and gratitude goes to the President of the Republic of Somaliland who never demurred of a commission request submitted to him however seemingly difficult or impossible looking it was,” Commissioner Musa Hassan stated. “Nearly seventy-five per cent of the double election cost was paid from the government coffer,” he revealed.
“The United Kingdom, the European Commission, Taiwan, and NIMD – the Norwegian Institute for Multiparty Democracy – have earned our deepest gratitude for their support. Similarly, we are not forgetful of the international observers and the international media and everybody who has in one or another stood by us and the desire to see an impeccable, free and fair election staged,” Commissioner Musa said.
He also profusely thanked the varied branches of Somaliland’s security forces for the ‘unforgettable’ role they have undertaken in ensuring the safe conduct of the elections.
The commissioner went on to acknowledge the ‘indefatigable’ corps of university students and commission personnel who faultlessly manned election activities and polling stations across the nation.
Somaliland has established a remarkable tradition of peaceful power transfers since it reclaimed its independence in 1991. The 2023 election marks the sixth presidential election in the nation’s history, following previous contests in 2003, 2010, and 2017.
The 2003 election was particularly significant as it saw Dahir Riyale Kahin win by a mere 80 votes, making it one of the closest presidential races in African history. The peaceful acceptance of these results helped establish Somaliland’s democratic credentials. The 2010 election witnessed the late Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud “Silanyo” defeating the incumbent, while in 2017, Muse Bihi Abdi secured victory.
Each transition has been marked by peaceful handovers of power, a rarity in the Horn of Africa region. The 2023 election continues this tradition, with incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi accepting the electoral outcome, further cementing Somaliland’s reputation for democratic stability.
The electoral system employs a first-past-the-post model, where the candidate with the highest number of votes wins. This system, combined with the limitation of three national parties, has helped maintain political stability while allowing for genuine democratic competition.Somaliland’s track record of peaceful transitions stands in stark contrast to the situation in neighboring regions, making it a notable example of democratic practice in East Africa, despite lacking international recognition as a sovereign state.
The success of these elections and the peaceful transfers of power can be attributed to several key factors. Strong traditional conflict resolution mechanisms and the role of clan elders have been instrumental in maintaining political stability. Additionally, a robust civil society and independent electoral institutions have played crucial roles. The growing democratic culture among the population has also significantly contributed to the overall success of the electoral process.
This latest election reinforces Somaliland’s commitment to democratic principles and peaceful political transitions, demonstrating the territory’s political maturity despite challenging regional circumstances.
By Anwar Warame, The Chairman of Somaliland Non State Actors
I send my congratulations and prayers to the President-elect, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilaahi (Cirro). I hope that God will grant him the great responsibility that lies ahead, and I urge him to rule his people with equality and justice. I ask the people of Somaliland to stand by the President and give him the opportunity to work.
I congratulate the National Electoral Commission for implementing one of the highest quality elections in Somaliland.
I commend the civil society organizations of the Republic of Somaliland for their effective role in making the elections successful.
Finally, I congratulate the President who had the courage to hold the elections and paid for the expenses incurred in the elections, and I also send special congratulations to the citizens of Somaliland for the success achieved by the Nation, a success that we all achieved together as one.
Three years ago today, Candidate Abdirahman Cirro handed over the leadership of the Waddani Party to Chairman Hersi Ali H. Hassan. It was a politically groundbreaking move in the country’s political culture, based on encouragement, confidence, and institutional development. However, many people expressed concern, while others opposed it at the time, viewing it as ease and complacency. The results of today’s elections clearly testify to the correctness of Candidate / President Abdirahman Cirro’s decision back then.
Politics requires innovation and courage to explore new paths, as well as building trust and confidence within the collective team and strengthening party affiliation. It is not necessary for a leader to always follow well-trodden or known paths; rather, they should be able to harness the insights and support of the people towards new emerging paths. The late civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. is famously quoted on this matter, stating, “Great leaders don’t seek consensus. They create consensus.”
I believe this is one of the lessons we can learn politically from the election, certainly not the only one, as many others exist.
SOMALILAND NON-STATE ACTORS’ FORUM
ELECTION OBSERVATION MISSION
STATEMENT OF PRELIMINARY FINDINGS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Presidential and party elections were held in Somaliland on 13 November 2024. A competitive campaign offered Somaliland’s voters a choice of political alternatives, although the policy platforms of the candidates were not prominently discussed. Political parties and associations
were able to campaign freely.
Although the conduct of some political contestants fell short of the standards established by law, the National Electoral Commission (NEC)’s Electoral Ethics, Conflict Resolution, and Monitoring Committee took robust steps to discipline party activity.
Pre-election preparations, including voter registration, were generally administered efficiently and transparently by the NEC. On election day, the NEC opened more than 2,600 polling stations across all six regions of Somaliland.
SONSAF observers submitted reports from 272 polling stations across the country and evaluated voting procedures as good or very good in more than 90% of observations. In almost all instances, voters were able to exercise their democratic choice freely. However, many polling stations opened late, and widespread challenges with the biometric voter identification system were documented. Some SONSAF observers were initially prevented from observing polling, primarily in Togdheer region. While these shortcomings did not appear to affect the overall integrity of the electoral process, the NEC’s response was not always timely, causing delays for many voters, and in some instances contributing to tensions in the vicinity of polling stations.
SONSAF observed several serious incidents during polling. Two men were witnessed attempting to buy voter registration cards in Badhka, Hargeisa, leading to an altercation with waiting voters and with the security forces. In the Calamadaha area of Hargeisa, a polling station security officer inadvertently shot himself while firing in the air to disperse a crowd. However, such incidents were uncommon, and election day was generally calm, if sometimes boisterous.
Toward the end of voting, SONSAF observers witnessed flagrant political interference in polling in Barwaaqo, Berbera by senior party, police, and municipal figures. SONSAF observers were forced to leave the polling station by the security forces. We call on the NEC to investigate this incident further and to take the necessary action, as appropriate.
SONSAF observed vote counting and tallying in 242 polling stations and evaluated counting procedures as good or very good in 95% of observations.However, in at least 23 instances in Awdal, Berbera, Burao, Hargeisa, and Sool, SONSAF observers reported that they were prevented from observing counting, either partially or entirely. Where SONSAF observers were present,
International election observers have released their preliminary assessment of Somaliland’s November 13, 2024 elections, which combined presidential polls with a unique vote to determine the nation’s official political parties.
The International Election Observation Mission (IEOM), which observed voting at 146 polling stations across all six regions of Somaliland, reported that citizens were largely able to exercise their right to vote in a peaceful environment, despite some procedural challenges.
In this historic double election, voters cast ballots for both their next president and to select which three political associations will be granted official party status for the next decade. The presidential race featured three candidates: incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye party, Abdirahman Abdilahi Irro from Waddani, and Faisal Ali Hussein representing the Justice and Welfare Party (UCID).
The political party selection process introduced a new system where voters directly chose which three political associations would receive constitutional status as official parties for 2024-2034. To qualify, associations must secure the highest number of votes nationally and reach at least 20% support in each of Somaliland’s six regions.
While the IEOM noted some administrative errors and training gaps among polling station staff, they did not observe any serious irregularities or electoral malpractice. However, they highlighted concerns about vote secrecy for illiterate voters and recommended adopting international best practices for assisted voting in future elections.
The observers praised the National Electoral Commission (NEC) for its competent management of the elections and noted that all political actors expressed confidence in the NEC’s impartiality and professional capabilities prior to election day.
The mission also acknowledged the significant role of women in running polling stations and serving as party agents, particularly in urban areas, while noting the absence of female candidates for the presidency and vice-presidency positions.
As vote tabulation continues, this election marks Somaliland’s eighth democratic exercise since declaring independence in 1991, demonstrating the region’s continued commitment to democratic processes despite its unrecognized international status.
Here is the FULL COPY. (Find the report copied below the pictures, too)
AhmedMohamed Mohamoud ‘Siilaanyo,’ a towering figure in Somaliland’s history, passed away on November 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy defined by resilience, vision, and service. From his early days in British Somaliland to leading a nation through its formative years, Siilaanyo’s life was a story of dedication to his people and their aspirations. His achievements in governance, nation-building, and international diplomacy continue to resonate as a beacon of hope for Somalilanders and beyond.
Born in 1936 in Burao, Siilaanyo’s roots were humble yet deeply connected to the pulse of Somaliland’s culture and traditions. Growing up in a family that combined the nomadic and merchant lifestyles, Siilaanyo developed an early appreciation for both the rugged independence of the countryside and the dynamism of trade. He was the only one among his siblings to pursue formal education, a journey made possible by the encouragement of a caring uncle. His dedication to learning took him to prestigious institutions in Somaliland and later to the University of Manchester in England, where he earned a Master’s degree in Economics. This academic foundation shaped his worldview and became instrumental in his approach to governance.
After completing his studies, Siilaanyo returned to Somalia, eager to contribute to the development of his homeland. In the 1960s and 70s, he held key positions in the Somali government, including Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, Minister of Commerce, and Chairman of the National Economic Board. During this period, he gained a reputation for his integrity and competence, steering clear of the corruption and authoritarian tendencies that plagued the administration of Mohamed Siad Barre. Siilaanyo’s focus on planning and commerce reflected his belief that strong economic policies were essential for national development, a principle he carried with him throughout his career.
As the Siad Barre regime grew increasingly repressive in the late 1970s, Siilaanyo’s conscience drove him to join the opposition. In 1984, he became the chairman of the Somali National Movement (SNM), a position he held for six critical years. Under his leadership, the SNM galvanized support against the dictatorship, becoming a formidable force for change. Siilaanyo’s tenure as leader saw the SNM launch daring offensives, including the legendary assaults on Burao and Hargeisa in 1988. These battles, though costly, demonstrated the determination of the Somaliland people to reclaim their freedom and sovereignty.
When Somaliland declared independence in 1991, following the collapse of the Somalia state, Siilaanyo played a pivotal role in the nation-building process. He emerged as a key figure in the transition, advocating for peace, reconciliation, and the establishment of democratic institutions. Recognizing that Somaliland needed a stable political framework, he dedicated himself to fostering dialogue among various clans and political factions. His efforts contributed significantly to Somaliland’s reputation as a peaceful and democratic entity in a region often marked by turmoil.
Video Player
00:00
01:05
In 2002, Siilaanyo founded the Kulmiye Party, reflecting his commitment to a united and progressive Somaliland. Kulmiye, which means “peace, unity, and development,” encapsulated his vision for the nation. As its leader, Siilaanyo worked tirelessly to promote policies that would uplift the lives of Somalilanders, emphasizing the importance of economic development, education, and healthcare. His leadership transformed Kulmiye into a powerful political force, ultimately leading to his election as Somaliland’s fourth president in 2010.
Video Player
00:00
01:12
Siilaanyo’s presidency marked a turning point in Somaliland’s history. One of his earliest and most notable achievements was his focus on political inclusivity and reform. He believed that Somaliland’s strength lay in its ability to accommodate diverse perspectives and ensure that every citizen had a voice in governance. His administration passed laws to encourage the formation of political parties, paving the way for greater political engagement and pluralism. These reforms underscored his belief in democracy as the foundation of Somaliland’s future.
Economic development was another cornerstone of Siilaanyo’s presidency. Recognizing the strategic importance of the Port of Berbera, he spearheaded an agreement with DP World to modernize the port and develop it into a regional trade hub. This initiative aimed to boost Somaliland’s economy, create jobs, and attract foreign investment. Siilaanyo frequently spoke about the transformative potential of the port, envisioning it as a gateway to prosperity for the nation.
Siilaanyo also took significant steps to modernize Somaliland’s armed forces. He introduced a formal ranking system, which professionalized the military and enhanced its capacity to safeguard the nation’s security. This move reflected his commitment to ensuring that Somaliland remained stable and resilient in a volatile region. Under his leadership, the armed forces became a symbol of national pride and unity.
On the international front, Siilaanyo was an indefatigable advocate for Somaliland’s recognition. He traveled extensively, meeting with world leaders and making the case for Somaliland’s sovereignty. Siilaanyo argued that Somaliland’s stability, democratic governance, and commitment to peace made it a deserving candidate for international recognition. His efforts elevated Somaliland’s profile on the global stage, earning the admiration of allies and the attention of policymakers.
Despite his many accomplishments, Siilaanyo remained deeply connected to his people. He was known for his humility and willingness to listen, often engaging directly with citizens to understand their concerns. His belief in service was encapsulated in his statement, “A leader’s duty is to serve the people with integrity, to listen to their needs, and to guide them toward a future of prosperity and dignity.” These words were not merely aspirational but a reflection of how he governed.
Siilaanyo’s personal warmth and dedication earned him the love and respect of Somalilanders from all walks of life. Whether addressing a crowd of thousands or speaking with individuals in small villages, he conveyed a sense of genuine care and concern. His leadership style was one of inclusivity, emphasizing that Somaliland’s success depended on the contributions and unity of all its people.
After stepping down in 2017, Siilaanyo remained a revered elder statesman, offering counsel and serving as a moral compass for the nation. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy endures in the democratic institutions he nurtured, the economic initiatives he championed, and the hope he instilled in the hearts of Somalilanders – and Somalians before that.
Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud ‘Siilaanyo’ will be remembered not just as a president but as a father of the nation, a symbol of resilience, and a voice for justice and progress. His life’s work is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and compassion in shaping a brighter future. As Somaliland moves forward, it carries with it the indelible mark of Siilaanyo’s leadership, a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide the nation for generations to come.
Somtribune adds its humble, most sorrowful condolences to the flood of sorrow pouring in from all over the world to Amina Weris, his lifelong spouse, children, friends, relatives and to the Somaliland nation.
Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud “Silanyo” born 86 years ago was a Somaliland politician who was President of Somaliland from 2010 to 2017. He was a long-time member of the government, having served as Minister of Commerce of the Somali Republic, and among other Cabinet positions. During the 1980s, he also served as the Chairman of the Somali National Movement.
Standing as an opposition candidate, he was elected as President of Somaliland in Somaliland’s 2010 presidential election.
Background
Early life
Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud Silanyo was born in 1938 in the Mideastern town of Burco, situated in what was then the former British Somaliland protectorate.
Ahmed M. Mohamoud Silanyo is the third child of six. His father was a merchant marine; so, the family lived a half-nomadic, half-settled lifestyle. He was the only child in the family to attend a formal education, fostered by an uncle who was a strong influence on his early life. His brothers followed their father’s footsteps as merchant marines. He was Muslim.
Education
Between 1946 and 1957, Mohamoud studied at schools in Sheekh and Amud, where he completed his secondary levels.
Upon graduation, he moved to England to pursue higher studies. From 1958 to 1960, Mohamoud enrolled in London University and obtained an advanced General Certificate of Education (GCE). He then studied at University of Manchester, where he earned both a Bachelor’s Degree (1960–1963) and a Master’s Degree (1963–1965) in Economics.
Personal life and death
He met his wife, Amina-Weris Sh. Mohamed, in the late 1960s. Like him, she completed her education as a registered nurse and midwife in England. She is one of the pioneers of Somali educated women. They married in Mogadishu in 1968. She has been a strong partner, by his side throughout the long and turbulent times of his political career. They have five children and seven grandchildren.
Mohamoud died in Hargeysa, Somaliland on 13 November 2024, at the age of 86.
Political career
In a professional capacity, between 1965 and 1969, Mohamoud served as an official at the Ministry of Planning and Coordination in Mogadishu during Somalia’s early civilian administration. He was also the national Minister of Planning and Coordination (1969–1973), Minister of Commerce (1973–1978 and 1980–1982), and the Chairman of the National Economic Board (1978–1980) in the succeeding socialist government. Although a member of Siad Barre’s cabinet for many years, he was believed to not be involved in any acts of violence and embezzlement. Therefore, allowing him to satisfy both the government and opposition at the time, paving way for his chairmanship of the Somali National Movement.
From 1984 to 1990, Mohamoud was the Chairman of the Somali National Movement (SNM), serving as the liberation group’s longest-serving chairman.
Between 1993 and 1997, Mohamoud was a member of the House of Representatives of Somaliland. He also worked as the Somaliland Minister of Finance from 1997 to 1999, in which position he initiated a program of fiscal reform. Between 1999 and 2000, Mohamoud served as Somaliland’s Minister of Planning and Coordination, a position from which he resigned in 2001.
Prominent Seminars, Symposia, Conferences
During his years of public service, Mohamoud participated in a broad array of forums relating to a variety of developmental aspects of the world. Notably, utilizing training programs under the auspices of the United Nations (United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)), as well as benefiting from a Leadership Grant organized by the African-American Institute that related to developmental fields, including visits to various regional state and federal governmental bodies throughout the United States.
Roles during the Somaliland Nationhood Government
1982–1984: Chairman of Somali National Movement (SNM), UK Branch
During the earlier years of the SNM, Mohamoud established offices and organized SNM committees throughout Europe, North America, and the Arab World to raise international awareness of the liberation movement and the brutality of Somalia’s Siyad Barre regime against its own people through presentations to international human rights groups, the press media, various European government bodies, including the British Parliament and the European Inter-Parliamentary Union, and relevant organizations in the Arab and Islamic world.
To further accomplish this, Mohamoud embarked on a program of recruitment of important personalities and groups in southern Somalia to join the SNM movement—a 1982 through 1991 Somali liberation faction founded and led predominantly by Isaaq members to protect the national interests of the Somalilanders against the oppressive Siyad Barre regime. Having successfully toppled the Siyad Barre regime in 1991, the SNM had been pivotal in reconstituting the Republic of Somaliland that on 1 July 1960, united with Somalia. Presently, Somaliland is a sovereign democratic country, but is internationally recognized as an autonomous region of Somalia.
1984–1990: Chairman of Somali National Movement (SNM)
During the following years Mohamoud would become the SNM’s longest-serving Chairman, in command throughout the most tumultuous, expansive, and decisive period of the liberation movement. In 1984, the SNM was in its infancy, having been established only two years earlier. The struggle was nebulous. This period was being steered through its most trying times. Its most momentous events occurred in October 1984 with the first major, simultaneous, and coordinated invasion of the SNM troops into the mountainous regions of Somaliland and its major expansion of SNM fronts in the southern and northwest regions of Awdal and the Northwest.
With tensions rising, a 1986 accord negotiated in Jabuuti between the Siyad Barre regime of Somalia and Mengistu Haile Mariam of Ethiopia to end the support of the respective rebellions against their regimes had for all intent and purposes entailed the dismemberment the SNM. Having lost its Ethiopian sanctuary, as a consequence of this agreement, in May 1988, the SNM waged a historically daring invasion on Togdheer and Northwest regions of Somaliland. With this secretly and meticulously planned attack—a shocking surprise to both Siyad Barre and Mingeste Haile Miriam regimes – SNM fighters easily took Burao (Burco) and Hargeisa (Hargeysa) cities. Although the SNM was finally pushed out of the two cities, the lightning attack proved to be the deathblow of the Siyad Barre regime. The end result being the peaceful transfer of power, in a spirit of unity, at the 1990 SNM Congress – a lasting peace that survives today.
While attending the Congress of Somaliland (Burao, May 1991), Mohamoud acted as a key player in re-establishing Somaliland’s sovereignty as an independent state. In 1992, he initiated, and then organized, the famous Forum for Peace that generated a cease-fire agreement between the warring parties in the so-called Xarbal Aqnaam War in the port city Berbera and its environs. From 1993 through 1996, he would act as a Member of Somaliland House of Representatives. During this time, in 1996, he initiated a reconciliation movement that brought about an end to the internal conflict at Beer – 18 miles southeast of Burao (Togdheer Region), where a formal agreement of cessation of hostilities and an exchange of prisoners would be finalized.
1997–1999: Minister of Finance
In 1997, Mohamoud had change roles, becoming the Minister of Finance for Somaliland devising and implementing a viable solution to stem out the runaway inflation threatening the economy of Somaliland. Further, shifting focus to the military, he sought to resolve the vexing problem of rationed supplies to the armed forces and begun to initiate a program for fiscal reform.
1999–2000: Minister of Planning and Coordination
Changing roles once more, Mohamoud began to act as the Minister of Planning and Coordination for Somaliland, working to establish mechanisms for the coordination of aid programs between the government and foreign-aid donors. He initiated the formulation of a three-year development plan, organized a first of its kind and well-attended international conference on aid for Somaliland held in Hargeisa, attended and addressed the Somalia Aid Coordination Body (SACB) in Nairobi, Kenya – as the first-ever Somaliland Government Minister to do so, and lead a Somaliland government delegation that met with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) representatives in Nairobi, Kenya.
2000–2002: Mediator and various other roles
During the period of working with Somaliland’s 2nd president, President Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal, Mohamoud played important and decisive roles as a mediator in preventing crisis with respect to incidents relating to the relationship between Djibouti and Somaliland, Somaliland and Ethiopia, SNM veterans and the Egal administration, and between the Somaliland House of Representatives and the Egal government. He would spend, however, a period overseas, delivering speeches and addressing communities of the Somaliland diaspora in Europe and the United States raising awareness on the achievements and developments of the county. Upon his return to Somaliland he immediately mounted a campaign toward the resolution of a looming national crisis between the Egal administration and its political opponents, a crisis which came close to starting afresh a new round of internal conflict.
2002–2010: Founder and chairman of the Kulmiye Party and its presidential candidate
The youngest political organization in the country, the Kulmiye Party was established in early 2002 with a focus on conveying the campaign’s platform to the countryside and rural regions. Notably, Mohamoud pursued a no smear campaign policy toward other political parties, thus conducting a peaceful election, while applauding public education on the merits of the multi-party system and the democratic process. However, Mr. Mohamoud lost the election by a mere 80 votes to President Dahir Rayaale Kahin.
Despite this setback, Mohamoud would be a supporting for the women’s voices in Somaliland, as the Kulmiye Party was the only party to appoint a woman as Vice-Chair. During the next elections, Mohamoud was rewarded by garnering the largest national votes, only less than the total votes the incumbent party obtained during the previous presidential election. Through his stewardship, the Kulmiye Party has grown to be the largest party in Somaliland. Despite the ruling party’s continuous hold to power after its term expired, and its unwillingness to hold free and fair elections, Mohamoud continued to pursue political change through the democratic process by working closely with traditional elders and the international community, whose interest is peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Thus, when he ran as the Kulmiye Party candidate for president he was able to defeat incumbent President Dahir Rayaale Kahin of the United Peoples’ Democratic Party (UDUB) in the 2010 presidential election.
2010–2017: Fourth president of the Republic of Somaliland
Mr. Mohamed’s term ended with the presidential election of 13 November 2017, which had been delayed from 28 March 2017.
A snapshot of some of the salient achievements of the Silanyo Administration are depicted in the next section.
President of Somaliland
The Silanyo administration currency stabilization
One of the first policy implementations of the administration was the introduction of the Somaliland Shilling to the entire country. Prior to this time, the old Somalia Shillings were honored in the eastern regions of the country. In 2011, President Silanyo issued an executive order, and passed by Parliament, making the Somaliland Shilling the legal tender of the country.
Major infrastructure improvements
Construction of offices for many of the country’s twenty-four ministries, since the 1991 government ministries were housed in ill-suited offices built in a different era by the British colonial administration for fewer administrative departments. The Silanyo Administration budgeted and implemented construction of offices for many of the ministries that were in inadequate facilities.
The administration not only repaired or rebuilt roads connecting major towns, but also built roads leading to small towns in the country side. Furthermore, the Administration encouraged and helped partially fund community-based road construction. More importantly however, the government started building a 240-mile (384 km.) tarmac road linking Burao (Burco) City to the provincial town of Erigavo (Ceerigaabo), the capital of Sanaag Region in the east of the country.
As part of the infrastructure improvement, the administration enlarged and enhanced security of Egal International Airport, in Hargeisa and Berbera Airport.[20]
Enacted legislation that made primary education free.
Implemented new rank and salary systems for the Somaliland Armed Forces, the Somaliland Police, and the Custodial Corps.
Water development program
Because there are no perennial rivers and rainfall is unreliable, water is a highly precious commodity in Somaliland. Water supply systems throughout the country are, therefore, dependent on underground sources. Cognizant of the recurring droughts and inadequate water supply systems of cities and towns, the Silanyo Administration introduced a water development policy. The central policy of the Administration’s water development program is, inter alia, drilling bore holes and damming dry – river beds that drain water into the sea during the two rainy seasons.
In order to realize such policy achievements, the administration embarked on expanding, through additional drilling, the water supply systems of the six major towns: Hargeisa, Borama, Berbera, Burao, Las Anod, and Erigavo.
In particular, to alleviate the chronic water shortage in the capital city, Hargeisa, the administration drilled more wells and installed bigger and rust resistant pipe lines in the Geed Deeble water works and is damming the Humboweyne (Xumboweyne) dry river, north east of Hargeisa.
The administration intends to establish a grid work of wells throughout the country as well as damming as many of the numerous dry-bed rivers emanating from Golis Range that otherwise empty into the sea.
Joint venture with Dubai Port World (D P World) for the management of Berbera Port
The administration has entered into a joint venture agreement with Dubai Port World (DP World) whereby D.P World for thirty years takes over the management of Berbera Port; builds a 400-meter new terminal with a container section, Free Trade Zone, and rehabilitates the old port.[24]
In addition, the United Arab Emirates has agreed to build a 250 km (156 mile) road connecting Berbera and the border town of Wajaale.
These major agreements enhance the capacity of the port and employment opportunities, but more importantly enable trade to flourish between Somaliland and Ethiopia’s population of 102 million.
Death
According to his family, the former President of Somaliland Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud ‘Ahmed Siilaanyo’ died at the age of 86 in Hargeisa on November 15, 2024, after a long illness.
The Press Conduct Oversight Committee of Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) has strongly appealed to all media outlets to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, and especially until official results are announced. The committee called on journalists and media organizations to refrain from disseminating unofficial or fabricated election results that have not been formally released by the NEC.
In an official statement, the committee also urged the people of Somaliland to exercise caution and skepticism toward unverified reports. It warned against the spread of baseless rumors and fabricated news designed to mislead and create unnecessary confusion. The committee emphasized the importance of accuracy and truth in ensuring a peaceful and credible election process.
Commending the professionalism demonstrated by responsible media outlets, the committee lauded the Somaliland press for its dedication to upholding journalistic standards during this critical period. It highlighted the media’s commendable efforts in responsibly covering the elections, verifying voter turnout figures, and maintaining a commitment to truth and impartiality.
The committee praised the media for their integrity and diligence, underscoring their vital role in fostering transparency and trust in the electoral process.
“We thank all who have contributed to the integrity of these elections, and we trust that the collective commitment to fairness and accuracy will continue to guide us through this pivotal moment for our nation,” Shadia Mohamed Rooble, the Chairperson of the Committee concluded.
NEC Commissioner Hussein Badhani detailed the National Electoral Commission’s rigorous data processing protocols, emphasizing transparency and accuracy throughout the electoral process.
The Commissioner outlined that after polls closed, commission officers and party representatives jointly counted ballots at each station, signing a consolidated tally sheet. Speaking to media in Borama, Awdal, where he oversaw the November 13 elections, Badhani described the multi-stage verification system at regional headquarters.
“The process begins at the Ballot Ensuring Desk,” he explained. “Data sheets then move to the Special Investigation Desk for re-verification. Questionable sheets are quarantined for further review, while validated ones proceed to party representatives for comparison with their copies. At the Data Entry Desk, representatives monitor every keystroke on large displays. The final report undergoes one more verification before receiving signatures and stamps from both party representatives and the presiding NEC Commissioner.”
Any significant, valid concerns raised by election stakeholders would be forwarded to the constitutional court for adjudication. Badhani’s briefing aligned with the NEC Chairman’s earlier press statement on Thursday evening.
The international community lauded Somaliland for conducting another smooth election, which drew widespread attention from democratic nations worldwide.
Somaliland’s track record of peaceful transitions stands in stark contrast to the situation in neighboring regions, making it a notable example of democratic practice in East Africa, despite lacking international recognition as a sovereign state.
by
