Thursday December 5, 2024
Outgoing Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi addresses the nation during his final cabinet meeting in Hargeisa, emphasizing unity and stability as he prepares to hand over power to President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi 'Irro'.
Hargeisa (HOL) — Outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi has called for calm and unity as Somaliland transitions to its new administration under President-elect Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi "Irro." In his final cabinet meeting before stepping down, Bihi urged supporters of the ruling Kulmiye party and the opposition Waddani party to avoid divisive rhetoric that could harm the nation's stability.
"Our elections were not just a political contest; they were a triumph for the people of Somaliland," Bihi said, his voice steady but firm. "While we may have lost this round, our role as nation-builders continues. Let us allow the new administration the space it needs to succeed, particularly in its first 100 days. Reckless statements that undermine Somaliland's hard-earned reputation are forbidden."
The outgoing president, who has overseen Somaliland during years of political and economic turbulence, struck a conciliatory tone. He called on supporters of his ruling Kulmiye party to maintain dignity in defeat and avoid rhetoric that could stoke division.
Bihi also extended an olive branch to Waddani party supporters, congratulating them on their victory while urging them to avoid divisive language.
"To those now in power, remember that leadership is about unity, not division," he said. "Congratulations on your success. Let us all come together to ensure that the promise of this election is fulfilled."
The peaceful handover marks a continued democratic tradition for Somaliland, which has long prided itself on its relative stability in the Horn of Africa. International observers have praised the recent election as a model for democratic progress in a region often plagued by conflict.
Bihi urged all stakeholders to prioritize the nation's broader interests, warning against actions that could destabilize the fragile democracy.
"Somaliland's elections are a beacon of hope, not just for us but for the entire region," he said. "We must protect this legacy and ensure that our actions today lay a foundation for future generations."