Somaliland's new president raises hopes for international recognition

Somalia's self-declared independent region of Somaliland held an inauguration ceremony for its new president, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, in the capital city of Hargeisa on December 12, 2024. This ceremony followed an election held the previous month, which underscored the region's ongoing quest for international recognition as a sovereign state. Abdullahi, a member of the opposition Waddani Party, won over 50% of the votes against the incumbent president, Muse Bihi Abdi, who served for seven years. In his inaugural speech, Abdullahi emphasized the importance of strengthening Somaliland's foreign policy to pursue international recognition, citing a "valid legal argument" for sovereignty. The country's push for international recognition is essential, particularly since it has remained unrecognized by the African Union, the United Nations, and other nations since its declaration of independence from Somalia over 30 years ago. The ongoing political landscape in Somaliland has been characterized by relative stability compared to Somalia, which struggles with insecurity and violence, primarily due to the Al-Shabaab militant group. Abdullahi's administration will face internal challenges, particularly in the Sool region, where tensions persist, and external challenges such as the implications of a controversial land-lease deal made with Ethiopia. This agreement, which promises to establish a marine force base in Somaliland, has not been well received by everyone, and Abdullahi plans to review such deals to ensure they align with Somaliland's interests. At the inauguration, U.S. Ambassador to Somalia Richard H. Riley acknowledged the democratic transition and called Somaliland a model for democracy in the region. He urged the new administration to collaborate with both local entities and international partners. The public’s high voter turnout and the peaceful electoral process have been pointed to as evidence of Somaliland’s democratic maturity, showcasing the region's intentions to enhance its international standing through stable governance and clear policy directions. Abdullahi's ascent to power marks an important moment in Somaliland's ongoing struggle for acknowledgment on the global stage, as the new president and his administration embark on a mission to navigate and reassess Somaliland's domestic challenges while advocating for its sovereignty internationally.