Thursday November 28, 2024
Judges of the Somaliland Supreme Court preside over the session to validate the November 13 presidential election results, confirming a peaceful transition of power to the Waddani Party. (Photo: Supreme Court of Somaliland)
Hargeisa (HOL) — The Somaliland Supreme Court has officially validated the results of the November 13 presidential election, cementing a historic victory for the Waddani Party and signalling a peaceful political transition in the self-declared republic.
Chief Justice Adan Haji Ali announced the court's decision, affirming Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, widely known as Irro, as President after securing 64% of the vote. Mohamed Ali Abdi Mahmoud was declared Vice President. Both candidates ran on the Waddani Party ticket, ending nearly 15 years of governance by the Kulmiye Party.
"The court has approved the election results, confirming that Mr. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Egal and Mr. Mohamed Ali Abdi Mahmoud have been duly elected as President and Vice President," Chief Justice Adan stated during a press briefing.
The Supreme Court emphasized that no objections or legal challenges were filed by opposing candidates, paving the way for a seamless endorsement of the preliminary results issued by the National Electoral Commission.
This year's election, hailed as one of the most peaceful in Somaliland's history, highlights the region's growing political maturity. Supporters celebrated across Somaliland's major cities, with jubilant crowds waving Waddani Party flags in Burao. Analysts view the Waddani Party's victory as a shift in Somaliland's political landscape, with the outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi graciously conceding defeat and congratulating the winners.
Observers have praised the election process, noting that Somaliland continues to set a democratic standard in the region, even as it seeks international recognition as a sovereign state.