<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Somaliland – Somaliland.com</title> <atom:link href="https://www.somaliland.com/tag/somaliland/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.somaliland.com</link> <description>News and Info About Somaliland and The Horn of African Countries: Djibouti, Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya and Eritrea</description> <lastBuildDate>Sun, 28 Jul 2024 11:05:36 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <image> <url>https://i0.wp.com/www.somaliland.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-Flag_of_Somaliland.svg.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1</url> <title>Somaliland – Somaliland.com</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">152653665</site> <item> <title>Embracing Unity for a Brighter Somaliland: The Call for Changeand Renewal</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/opinion/embracing-unity-for-a-brighter-somaliland-the-call-for-changeand-renewal/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 28 Jul 2024 11:04:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31143</guid> <description><![CDATA[Somaliland, a nation steeped in resilience and unity, finds itself at a pivotal moment in.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><br>Somaliland, a nation steeped in resilience and unity, finds itself at a pivotal moment in its<br>history. The echoes of historical tensions linger, shaping the narrative of a country striving for<br>reconciliation and progress. At the heart of this transformative journey lies the choice<br>between perpetuating political fractures or embracing unity and renewal, exemplified by the<br>contrasting visions of the current Kulmiye government and Dr. Cirro’s leadership.</p> <p><br><strong>The Legacy of Division: A Critique of Kulmiye’s Governance<br></strong><br>The political landscape of Somaliland is marred by the shadows of division and discord,<br>exacerbated by the current administration led by the Kulmiye Party. Accusations of exploiting<br>history for political gain and perpetuating a culture of division have cast a shadow over the<br>nation’s aspirations for unity. The misuse of political power to label dissenting voices as<br>“internal enemies” has further deepened societal rifts, undermining the very fabric of<br>Somaliland’s unity.<br><br>Critics argue that the Kulmiye government’s divisive tactics have hindered the nation’s<br>progress, stalling economic growth and exacerbating social inequities. The legacy of unity<br>and self-determination that once defined Somaliland’s struggle for independence is now<br>overshadowed by political opportunism and stagnation. As the nation stands at a<br>crossroads, the call for change grows louder, urging Somalilanders to reject the politics of<br>division and embrace a future built on collaboration and inclusivity.</p> <p><br><strong>A Beacon of Hope: Dr. Cirro’s Vision for Unity and Progress</strong><br><strong><br></strong>In the midst of political turbulence, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of Dr. Cirro, a<br>transformative leader offering a vision of unity and progress. As a presidential candidate in<br>the upcoming elections, Dr. Cirro represents a departure from the divisive rhetoric of the<br>past, advocating for inclusivity, dialogue, and collaborative governance. His platform is a<br>testament to his commitment to addressing the core challenges facing Somaliland, from<br>economic stagnation to social injustice.<br><br>Dr. Cirro’s leadership style emphasizes consensus-building and unity, standing in stark<br>contrast to the divisive tactics employed by the current government. By critiquing Kulmiye’s<br>governance and presenting a viable alternative rooted in cooperation and shared prosperity,<br>Dr. Cirro offers Somalilanders a pathway towards a brighter future. His vision transcends<br>mere promises, embodying a call to action for a nation yearning for healing and renewal.</p> <p><br><strong>A Decisive Crossroad: Choosing Unity Over Division</strong><br><strong><br></strong>As Somaliland approaches a critical juncture in its democratic journey, the choice before its<br>citizens is clear: to perpetuate political fractures or to forge a path towards unity and<br>progress. The power to shape the nation’s destiny lies in the hands of the electorate, who<br>hold the key to unlocking a new chapter in Somaliland’s history—one defined by<br>collaboration, solidarity, and shared prosperity.<br><br>By rejecting the politics of division and embracing Dr. Cirro’s vision of unity and progress,<br>Somalilanders have the opportunity to rewrite their narrative, reclaiming their legacy of<br>resilience and unity. As they prepare to cast their votes, they do so not just as individuals but<br>as architects of a collective future, tasked with steering their nation towards a new dawn of</p> <p><br><strong>reconciliation and inclusive development.</strong><br><strong><br></strong>In conclusion, Somaliland stands at a crossroads, where the choice between unity and<br>division will shape its future trajectory. By critiquing the current government’s divisive tactics<br>and advocating for a vision of harmony and progress, Dr. Cirro offers a compelling<br>alternative for a nation yearning for change and renewal. As Somalilanders unite behind a<br>shared vision of inclusivity and collaboration, they pave the way for a brighter tomorrow,<br>where the promise of a united Somaliland shines bright on the horizon of possibility.</p> <p><br><strong>Abdi Halim M. Musa<br></strong>E-mail:<a href="mailto:halimusa4@gmail.com">halimusa4@gmail.com</a> <br>Hargeisa, Somaliland<br></p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31143</post-id> </item> <item> <title>The Battle for Truth: Defending MP. Mohamed Abib and Democracy in Somaliland</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/opinion/the-battle-for-truth-defending-mp-mohamed-abib-and-democracy-in-somaliland/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jul 2024 13:34:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31138</guid> <description><![CDATA[There is a fateful struggle going on within the hallowed halls of the Parliament of.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p>There is a fateful struggle going on within the hallowed halls of the Parliament of Somaliland, where the spirit of intensive debate and democratic governance should rightfully rule. And, in the forefront of this struggle, there is none other than Mohamed Abib, that paragon parliamentarian celebrated for his resolute integrity and commitment to the truth, who has now become the prime target of a relentless and elaborate campaign aimed at silencing his voice. He stands up for his constituency, embodying the common will of 4 million hardworking Somalilanders, tirelessly battling corruption and resisting political subjugation. It is with his efforts that he is now a beacon of hope and a dangerous enemy to any corrupt power.</p> <p>The man of valor in our political scene, Mohamed Abib, has shown this will to remain transparent and responsible. Openly against any form of corruption and highly committed to justice, he views himself more as a champion for his constituents than just a politician.</p> <p>But the course of action Abib has taken is one full of perils. The serious reaction he faces goes as far as trying to remove his parliamentary immunity to unleash multiple legal accusations against him, all malicious and which aim to damage his prestige and lower his efficiency in the chambers. They are clear attempts at compromise with the antidemocratic forces of the values that should shield any representative chosen through popular vote.</p> <p>It is, therefore, that we are at a crossroads, considering that the Speaker of Parliament has called an extraordinary meeting on 27 July 2024, for a session to consider the request of the Attorney General in the case of lifting Abib’s immunity. This is not going to be a mere procedural session or an academic exercise, but it is going to be the actual war between the repressive elements in our government and the protectors of our constitutionally guaranteed rights.</p> <p>This critical time demands that every Member of Parliament acts not only for the protection of Mohamed Abib but also for the protection of the constitution of our nation, that is under threat by a few individuals who wish to use it to their whims. We too hereby call upon any citizen of Somaliland and appreciate the noble efforts of the people from the Awdal and Salel regions. The massive support the people of Somaliland gave Abib at this last rally, along with their reaffirmed mandate for his leadership, stands as one clear example of a strong defense of our democratic values. The message was categorical: an assault on Abib is an attack on every Somalilander who cherishes freedom and justice.</p> <p>As we inch our way towards the D-day set on Saturday, the 27<sup>th</sup>, the focus will most evidently be on this venue, not only within but beyond our borders. Without a doubt, it can be said that this day will go into history. Every progressive-minded citizen of Somaliland is standing with Abib together against oppression, with total certainty of victory in our hearts.</p> <p>This is more than a defense of one man; it is a stand for the soul of our nation and the principles upon which it was founded. Let’s remain resolute and unwavering in the coming together, so that the voices of the people in various places, be it in parliament or be it like Mohamed Abib, are never silenced.</p> <p>By Abdi Jama – abdi.jama@gmail.com</p> <p></p> <p></p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31138</post-id> </item> <item> <title>To: Members of the Parliament of Somaliland</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/opinion/to-members-of-the-parliament-of-somaliland/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jul 2024 13:30:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31135</guid> <description><![CDATA[Subject: Urgent Call to Defend Democracy and Uphold Justice Dear Members of the Parliament of.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>Subject: Urgent Call to Defend Democracy and Uphold Justice</strong></p> <p>Dear Members of the Parliament of Somaliland,</p> <p>We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in the history of our nation. The extraordinary session on 27 July 2024 to deliberate on the Attorney General’s request to remove MP. Mohamed Abib’s parliamentary immunity is not just a procedural formality but a crucial battle for the soul of our democracy.</p> <p>Mohamed Abib, a beacon of hope and integrity, tirelessly represents the will of 4 million Somalilanders. His unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice has positioned him as a formidable defender of our democratic values. However, his courageous stance against corruption and bad governance has also made him a target of baseless legal challenges designed to silence his voice and diminish his effectiveness.</p> <p>As your colleagues and constituents, we urge you to recognize the gravity of this moment. The attempts to strip Abib of his immunity are clear efforts by anti-democratic forces to undermine the principles that protect every elected representative. This session is not merely an academic exercise but a decisive battle between the oppressive elements within our governance and the defenders of our constitutional rights.</p> <p>We call upon you, as guardians of our nation’s constitution, to stand firm in defense of Mohamed Abib and the values he represents. Your actions in this session will determine the future of our democracy and the integrity of our legislative process.</p> <p>The overwhelming support for Abib from the people of Awdal and Salel regions, demonstrated during the recent rally, exemplifies the robust defense of our democratic values. Their message is clear: an attack on Abib is an attack on every Somalilander who cherishes freedom and justice.</p> <p>As the eyes of the nation and the world turn towards this extraordinary session, we urge you to act with courage and conviction. This is more than a defense of one man; it is a stand for the soul of our nation and the principles upon which it was founded.</p> <p>Let us come together, resolute and unwavering, to ensure that the voice of the people, through representatives like Mohamed Abib, is never silenced.</p> <p>Sincerely,</p> <p>Abdi Jama – <a href="mailto:abdi.jama@gmail.com">abdi.jama@gmail.com</a></p> <p>A Devoted Advocate for Justice and Democracy<br>Concerned Citizen</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31135</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Charting a New Course: Somaliland’s Demand for Change</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/news/charting-a-new-course-somalilands-demand-for-change/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 06 Jul 2024 14:33:20 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31115</guid> <description><![CDATA[By Abdi Jama Introduction Recent political changes in South Africa and the UK have shown.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>By Abdi Jama</strong></p> <p><strong>Introduction</strong></p> <p>Recent political changes in South Africa and the UK have shown one clear democratic principle: where a government fails to serve its people properly, change becomes necessary and eventually inevitable. This lesson can’t be lost on Somaliland, especially considering Kulmiye’s long reign of unfulfilled promises and democratic erosion.</p> <p><strong>Analyzing ANC and Conservative’s Downfall</strong></p> <p>Both the ANC in South Africa and the Conservative Party in the UK have been consigned to electoral defeats underpinned by their failure to govern equitably and unite within. Loss of support for the ANC came from massive corruption, economic stagnation, and pathetic service delivery, which left the poor feeling disenfranchised. The Conservative Party, on the other hand, was ridden by ideological fractures and led by a leadership that seemed out of touch with core concerns from the electorate about the economy and public services. It underlined, time and again, the general discontent with political establishments that do not bring substantial progress.</p> <p><strong>Democratic Deficits in Kulmiye</strong></p> <p>The rule of Kulmiye Political Party in Somaliland is no different from the above depictions, with much more chilling consequences for democratic governance. The party has gone ahead to tighten the noose around freedom of speech and the press, divide the people along social and clan lines, as well as manipulate election calendars to cling to power. Additionally, economic stagnation and high unemployment have exacerbated the situation, further disenfranchising the populace. These vices are nothing short of blatant violations of the very core fundamentals of democracy and have created a state of acrimony, animosity, and electoral disinterest among the citizens. These tactics of prolonging elections, however, in the case of Kulmiye, do, in fact, allude to strategized entrenchment rather than a commitment to democratic processes. They reflect misuse of power and are antithetical to the very foundational ideals of governance by the people.</p> <p><strong>Escalation of Conflict</strong></p> <p>During the leadership of President Muse Bihi, not only has Kulmiye been characterized by its ineffectual governance but has also contributed to intensified regional animosity, particularly in the Sool region, home to the Dhulbahante clan. The escalation to civil strife and the subsequent displacement of thousands have roots in Kulmiye’s refusal to engage with local grievances genuinely and in seeing through peace agreements brokered by previous administrations. This neglect has turned otherwise manageable disputes into severe crises, destabilizing the region and setting back the progress toward national unity and stability. Notably, in Las Anood, it has caused hundreds of killings and many injuries. It has also brought about an arrest of hundreds of prisoners and elevated human rights concerns.</p> <p><strong>Governance Transparency Issues</strong></p> <p>Another major casualty under the governance of Kulmiye is transparency. The void in practices of open government begets corruption and inefficiency, disheartening the populace. The lack of clear, accessible information on what the government does, and the policies effected therein has kept citizens unable to hold their leaders to account. Such practice, in turn, erodes their trust and stifles any kind of engagement with the state. This kind of opacity in governance is far from the tenets that define democracy, where transparency should empower rather than exclude citizens.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion: A Call for Democratic Renewal</strong></p> <p>The forthcoming Somaliland elections at the end of 2024 will, however, be a point where the electorate can take a second look at the path its governance has taken. The electorate should be encouraged by such examples as that of South Africa and the UK and demand from its government nothing but justice, service, and prosperity since the voters in those countries settled for change after similar long periods of disappointment. It is time to renew the democratic spirit, where governance reflects the needs and well-being of the people and not the interests of the few.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31115</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Crackdown on Dissent: The Alarming Erosion of Democracy in Somaliland</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/news/somaliland/crackdown-on-dissent-the-alarming-erosion-of-democracy-in-somaliland/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:00:36 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31109</guid> <description><![CDATA[By Ibrahim Abdi The recent arrest of Osman Omar Dool, a respected politician and activist.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>By Ibrahim Abdi</strong></p> <p>The recent arrest of Osman Omar Dool, a respected politician and activist from the Waddani political party, signals a grave shift in Somaliland’s democratic practices. Mr. Dool, a Norwegian citizen with Somali heritage, has been an outspoken critic of President Muse Bihi’s administration, targeting its transparency failures, frequent election postponements, economic stagnation, and human rights deficiencies.</p> <p>His apprehension at Egal International Airport was not only inappropriate but also deeply alarming, signaling a calculated effort to stifle dissent. This incident mirrors the earlier arrests of other distinguished figures such as Ms. Busharo Banday—a renowned journalist and activist, Mohamed Illig—the esteemed director of MMTV and a legendary journalist, his team, and Abdilmalik Oldoon—a seasoned journalist and compassionate humanitarian activist, all of whom have previously endured similar or even harsher treatment. Additionally, high-profile leaders and supporters of the Waddani Party have repeatedly faced similar crackdowns. These actions underscore a systematic campaign to intimidate and silence critical voices across the board.</p> <p>These actions starkly contrast with the democratic values that Somaliland has long championed, values that were meticulously developed over many years. The arbitrary detentions represent a significant backslide, eroding both domestic and international confidence in Somaliland’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.</p> <p>The release of Osman Omar Dool after two weeks, under significant pressure, barely mends the severe damage done to Somaliland’s reputation as a democratic nation. These incidents not only infringe upon individual liberties but also heighten the risk of civil unrest, as demonstrated by the possibility of violent confrontations following Dool’s detention—a crisis temporarily alleviated by the interventions of both Abdikarim Mooge, the Mayor of the capital, and Sultan Daud Sultan Abdilkadir, the Grand Sultan of Somaliland.</p> <p>Rather than silencing critics, the government’s measures have inadvertently magnified the causes championed by these detained figures, galvanizing support among opposition members and the broader public. These groups now view the detainees’ struggles as symbolic of a broader battle for democratic integrity and accountability.</p> <p>It is imperative that Somaliland’s leadership recognize that genuine strength is derived from fostering a pluralistic environment where dissent is not merely tolerated but actively encouraged as a catalyst for progress. The future stability and prosperity of the nation hinge on its ability to genuinely embody the democratic values it professes. This recent wave of arrests should serve as a stark wake-up call, urging a reaffirmation of democratic commitments and a decisive move away from autocratic tendencies. Somaliland must choose to nurture, not stifle, the voices of its people.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31109</post-id> </item> <item> <title>The Loss of Las’anod: A Blow to Somaliland’s Territorial Integrity and Social Cohesion</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/opinion/the-loss-of-lasanod-a-blow-to-somalilands-territorial-integrity-and-social-cohesion/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Jun 2024 06:56:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31106</guid> <description><![CDATA[By Abdi Jama The fall of Las’anod, once integral to Somaliland’s territory, marks a profound.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>By Abdi Jama</strong></p> <p>The fall of Las’anod, once integral to Somaliland’s territory, marks a profound shift toward the independent administration of SSC Khatumo, critically compromising Somaliland’s territorial integrity. This region’s loss under President Colonel Muse Bihi’s tenure not only signifies a territorial defeat but also a deep rupture in Somaliland’s social and political fabric.</p> <p>Las’anod’s secession has severely undermined the unity maintained by Bihi’s predecessors. This political loss symbolizes the fractured state of national cohesion under the current administration, with ramifications that affect both the immediate political landscape and the long-established social cohesion essential to Somaliland’s stability.</p> <p>The erosion of social cohesion among citizens is evident. The once strong sense of unity and shared identity has been replaced by division and distrust, a direct consequence of the administration’s failure to manage internal conflicts and address the grievances of neglected communities. Policies of exclusion, lack of dialogue, and failure to engage in meaningful reconciliation have fostered regional autonomy and separatist sentiments.</p> <p>Moreover, the disintegration of social cohesion is exacerbated by increasing polarization and fragmentation along clan lines, driven by the administration’s divisive tactics. The repercussions are not just political but social, as communities once coexisting peacefully are now divided by mistrust and resentment.</p> <p>The establishment of an independent administration in Las’anod signifies a significant threat to the very concept of a unified Somaliland. It challenges the legitimacy of the central government and sets a dangerous precedent for other regions that may harbor similar aspirations of autonomy. This shift jeopardizes the efforts of those who have worked towards a cohesive and unified Somaliland, where diverse communities could coexist and thrive under a shared national vision.</p> <p>The loss of Las’anod and the resulting breakdown in social cohesion underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive reassessment of Somaliland’s governance strategies. The administration must prioritize national unity and integrity by addressing the root causes of division and unrest. This requires a commitment to inclusive governance, equitable resource distribution, and genuine efforts to heal societal fractures.</p> <p>However, under the current Kulmiye administration, styled after a junta and led by two colonels, significant efforts to address these issues are not expected. The inability and unwillingness of President Muse Bihi’s regime to confront these challenges only serve to deepen the crisis. Accountability must be squarely placed on President Colonel Muse Bihi and his incompetent Loyalist Minister of Security and Interior, Colonel Mohamed Kahin, whose collective failure in leadership, decision-making, and accountability has precipitated this disaster.</p> <p>The electorate, driven by the urgent need for change and restoration of national integrity, is poised to reject a party that has failed to uphold effective governance and national cohesion. This issue must catalyze the political demise of Kulmiye in the upcoming election. The profound disillusionment with the government’s handling of Las’anod’s secession and its broader implications for Somaliland’s unity should spell the end for Muse Bihi and his team. The urgent need for new leadership that can effectively address these critical issues and restore trust and stability in Somaliland cannot be overstated.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31106</post-id> </item> <item> <title>At the Brink: The Critical Role of Somaliland’s National Electoral Commission in Upholding the November 13 Elections</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/opinion/at-the-brink-the-critical-role-of-somalilands-national-electoral-commission-in-upholding-the-november-13-elections/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:15:42 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31082</guid> <description><![CDATA[By Abdi Jama As November 13, 2024, approaches, the eyes of both Somaliland and the.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p>By Abdi Jama</p> <p>As November 13, 2024, approaches, the eyes of both Somaliland and the international community are fixed on the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (SLNEC). Amid preparations for the presidential and national political party elections, concerns are mounting over the integrity and independence of the majority of this body. Allegations of <a></a>partiality towards President Muse Bihi and the ruling Kulmiye party, due to perceived undue influences in the commission’s nominations, have sparked significant apprehension about the fairness of the upcoming electoral process.</p> <p>Recent developments have further intensified the complexities surrounding the electoral landscape in Somaliland<strong>. <em>Musa Hassan Yousuf</em></strong>, the chairman of the SLNEC, has publicly criticized the Kulmiye leadership, including key ministries and party officials, accusing them of undermining the commission’s autonomy. This bold accusation highlights the potential conflicts within the structures intended to protect electoral integrity. However, some observers interpret this as a tactic by the commission to distract from its alleged covert cooperation with the ruling regime and to mislead the public about its independence</p> <p>On the other hand, many concur that Kulmiye continues to exert undue influence over the commission, aiming to sway the electoral outcomes in its favor. Adding to the controversy is Kulmiye’s unilateral push to implement the IRIS voting system without the agreement of other stakeholders, which has sparked significant opposition from the Wadani party. There are widespread concerns that this technology, unfamiliar to the Somaliland electorate, might be exploited to manipulate election results, further complicating the trust in the electoral process.</p> <p>The timing of these controversies is exceptionally critical as Somaliland approaches its scheduled elections. Any missteps by the National Electoral Commission during this sensitive period could trigger disputes or a political deadlock, potentially delaying the elections. Such a delay could catalyze insecurity throughout the country and exacerbate social divisions, tipping the scales in an already precarious situation. This would play into the hands of President Muse Bihi, who stands to benefit from such a postponement, regardless of the cost, as he faces eroding support in traditional strongholds. Therefore, the commission must exercise utmost vigilance in its decisions and actions in the lead-up to the elections. It is imperative that they not only ensure procedural correctness but also maintain transparent and clear communication with all stakeholders to prevent any misunderstandings or accusations of bias.</p> <p>The integrity of the SLNEC is crucial not just for the administration of elections but for the overall political stability of Somaliland. The commission must stand firm as an independent entity loyal to democratic principles and the Somaliland constitution, rather than to any party or individual. The people of Somaliland deserve to participate in elections that are free, fair, and reflective of the true will of the electorate.</p> <p>As November 13 nears, the Somaliland National Electoral Commission’s conduct will be a determinant of not only the fairness of the electoral process but also the future trajectory of the nation’s democracy. It is their responsibility to navigate these turbulent times with integrity, ensuring that the elections do not fall victim to political gamesmanship but stand as a testament to the democratic resilience of Somaliland.</p> <p><em><strong>Abdi Jama, with a BSc in Business Administration and an MSc in Leadership and Management, is an expert in development, humanitarian efforts, and political systems in East Africa. His knowledge addresses the region’s key challenges. Contact him at <a href="mailto:abdi.jama@gmail.com">abdi.jama@gmail.com</a></strong></em></p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31082</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Somaliland MP Ahmed Guruuje Urges Electoral Commission to Prevent Election Delays</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/news/somaliland-mp-ahmed-guruuje-urges-electoral-commission-to-prevent-election-delays/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 03 Jun 2024 14:32:45 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Horn of Africa News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <category><![CDATA[elections]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Guruuje]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31062</guid> <description><![CDATA[In a press conference, Somaliland Member of Parliament Ahmed Nour Guruuje called on the national.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p>In a press conference, Somaliland Member of Parliament Ahmed Nour Guruuje called on the national electoral commission to refrain from any actions that could delay the upcoming election.</p> <p>He cited circulating rumors regarding the commission’s potential plan to implement a biometric voting system. This proposed change has received support from the ruling party but faces opposition from other political factions.</p> <p>Although neither the national electoral commission nor the political parties have publicly confirmed these reports, Guruuje urged the commission to avoid decisions that might lead to further postponements of the election.</p> <p>He highlighted the recent political instability in Somaliland, which resulted in loss of life and the arrest of opposition supporters, ultimately resolved through the intervention of traditional elders.</p> <p>Guruuje stressed the importance of adhering to the recommendations made by these traditional elders, which were subsequently approved by the parliament. He emphasized that the elections should proceed as scheduled on November 13 to prevent additional political unrest.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31062</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Somaliland’s Horseed Political Association Chairman Reiterates Decision to Boycott Upcoming Election</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/news/somalilands-horseed-political-association-chairman-reiterates-decision-to-boycott-upcoming-election/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 02 Jun 2024 10:37:05 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Elections]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Horn of Africa News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somalilland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=31044</guid> <description><![CDATA[Abdillahi Darawal, Chairman of Somaliland’s Horseed Political Association, has reaffirmed his decision not to participate.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p>Abdillahi Darawal, Chairman of Somaliland’s Horseed Political Association, has reaffirmed his decision not to participate in the upcoming elections scheduled for November 13. Speaking at a press conference today, Darawal expressed his concerns regarding the election process and the newly approved election law.</p> <p>Darawal emphasized that the law, supported by other political associations and the House of Representatives, favors the interests of the three main political parties.</p> <p>He warned that this could undermine Somaliland’s democratic principles, accusing the major parties of prioritizing their political agendas against the new political associations in the country.</p> <p>Despite recent amendments to the election law by the parliament and President Bihi, which advocate for combining the Presidential and political association elections, Darawal remains steadfast in his decision, just five months before the election date.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">31044</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Sultan Barre Hajji Hussein, Esteemed Somaliland Clan Leader, Passes Away in Hargeisa</title> <link>https://www.somaliland.com/news/sultan-barre-hajji-hussein-esteemed-somaliland-clan-leader-passes-away-in-hargeisa/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[xamse]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 27 May 2024 11:57:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Horn of Africa News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Somaliland]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.somaliland.com/?p=30895</guid> <description><![CDATA[Sultan Barre Hajji Hussein, a prominent clan leader in Somaliland, has passed away at the.]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p>Sultan Barre Hajji Hussein, a prominent clan leader in Somaliland, has passed away at the age of 78 following a three-year illness. Sultan Barre, who recently appeared to be recovering, had been a key figure in maintaining peace and fostering reconciliation in Somaliland since his coronation in 1997 in Bali Gubadle town.</p> <p>In recent months, political leaders in Somaliland frequently visited Sultan Barre’s residence, seeking his endorsement for the upcoming combined presidential and political party elections. His influence and counsel were highly valued across the political spectrum.</p> <p>Condolences have poured in from various quarters, including politicians, academics, and members of the public, all acknowledging Sultan Barre’s significant contributions to the peace process in Somaliland. President Muse Bihi highlighted Sultan Barre’s vital role in rebuilding Somaliland and fostering peace in his condolence message.</p> <p>Waddani party’s presidential candidate also expressed deep sorrow over Sultan Barre’s death, noting the widespread impact of his passing and his lasting legacy in Somaliland. He prayed for Sultan Barre to be granted Jannah.</p> </body>]]></content:encoded> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">30895</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss>