Opinion: Reform Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint — Waddani’s Journey to Reform Somaliland – Hussein Elmi

“Change is not a sprint; it is a marathon, and it will take time and, more importantly, diagnose, resources and strategy.” — Mihai Chiratcu, Change Management Expert.

This quote captures the essence of what Somaliland’s new Waddani-led government is beginning to realize after four months in office. Having ended Kulmiye’s 14-year reign, the Waddani party rode a wave of public optimism into power, promising reform, transparency, and renewal. However, translating those campaign promises into meaningful action has proven to be a far more complex and gradual task than many expected.

One of the immediate challenges facing the new administration lies in the composition of its cabinet and senior leadership. Many ministers and director generals are first-timers in government. While some bring fresh perspectives, others lack the experience or technical expertise needed to manage ministries efficiently. This inexperience has contributed to delays in decision-making and policy paralysis in key sectors such as health, and natural resources.

Further complicating matters, several important government positions remain unfilled. In many institutions, Kulmiye-era operatives and mid-level officials continue to occupy strategic posts. This creates confusion, resistance to change, and mixed loyalties within ministries. The absence of a unified leadership structure makes it difficult to push forward with reform or implement new policies effectively.

Moreover, there is still no clear strategy linking the Waddani party’s bold promises with concrete action on the ground. While anti-corruption rhetoric and calls for institutional reform remain popular talking points, citizens and civil servants alike are struggling to understand the government’s roadmap.

Despite these internal challenges, the government has made some notable progress. One of the most significant achievements has been the successful disarmament and integration of clan militias in the eastern regions of the country. For the last two years, these groups posed a threat to national cohesion and the authority of the central government in eastern regions. Through dialogue, confidence-building, and a gradual demobilization strategy, led by the vice president, the administration succeeded in nationalizing local forces and reducing the risk of intra-clan violence. This is a major step forward in building a unified national army and extending the rule of law to previously contested areas.

On the economic front, the financial situation inherited from the previous government was fragile. Budget deficits, and revenue leakages had taken a toll on government performance. However, the new administration has already begun implementing fiscal reforms aimed at improving transparency and increasing domestic revenue collection. These reforms—while still early—signal a positive direction in building a more stable and self-reliant economy.

Externally, Somaliland continues to face increasing hostility from Mogadishu. Somalia’s federal government has intensified its diplomatic and political campaigns against Somaliland’s independence, including overt support for the Khaatumo movement and Sool-Bari militias. These efforts are designed to destabilize Somaliland and undermine its sovereignty, especially in sensitive regions like Las Anod. In parallel, Somalia has been actively lobbying international actors—including the U.S. and regional organizations—to block recognition or cooperation with Somaliland. Despite these pressures, the Somaliland government has stood firm. It continues to advocate peacefully for recognition, while maintaining internal stability and defending its borders with professionalism and restraint.

In sum, the Waddani government has inherited a state with deep-rooted institutional challenges and intense external pressures. Effective reform demands not only political will but also skilled leadership, strategic clarity, and patient, well-managed execution. As Mihai Chiratcu wisely points out, meaningful change is a marathon, not a sprint.

The Waddani government must now shift gears from campaign mode to governance. It must invest in leadership development, prioritize filling vacant positions with qualified personnel, and present a clear national strategy that links party vision with actionable plans. Equally important, it must build trust within the civil service and avoid politically motivated purges that damage institutional stability.

The people of Somaliland voted for change. Whether that change will come depends not on promises, but on the government’s ability to build institutions, communicate clearly, and stay the course—one step at a time.

By Hussein Elmi, Political Analyst and Management Expert, Somalilander

Author Bio:
Hussein Elmi is a seasoned political analyst and management expert from Somaliland. He specializes in governance transitions, public sector reform, and strategic leadership in emerging states. He regularly contributes insights on politics, institutional development, and the Horn of Africa.