Wednesday November 13, 2024
Voters stand in line outside a polling station in Somaliland, awaiting their turn to participate in a pivotal presidential election. Citizens turned out in large numbers early in the morning, reflecting high public engagement and a strong commitment to shaping the region’s political future.
Hargeisa (HOL) — Voters across Somaliland took to the polls early Tuesday morning in an election that could reshape the political structure of the self-declared republic. Seeking re-election, incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the ruling Kulmiye Party faces opposition from Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro of Waddani and Faisal Ali Warabe from UCID. Beyond electing a president, the election will determine which three parties will secure official recognition, establishing the political landscape for the next decade.
Voters arrived early and in large numbers, with some expressing joy and relief as they lined up to participate in this pivotal moment. “I’m unwell, but I came early to cast my vote and leave the decision to God,” a woman in Borama told the BBC. She had arrived at the polling station before dawn, briefly returning home to rest, and returned to secure her place in line.
“I came at 2 a.m., and someone saved my spot. I came back by 5,” she added, her excitement underscoring the enthusiasm felt by many in Somaliland as the election approached.Many families participated together, with some entire households voting at once. Amaal Abdi Askar, who cast her vote in Hargeisa, described her excitement in an interview. “I’m thrilled that my country is holding such a peaceful election. Whichever of these three men wins, he is ours,” she said.
Amaal’s entire family voted, including her 17-year-old daughter. “All my children are adults now, and they all voted today,” she added, highlighting the strong sense of civic duty permeating Somaliland’s electorate.
Increased accommodations for voters with disabilities were a focus in this election. The Somaliland Disability Association, in collaboration with the electoral commission, implemented measures to ensure accessible voting, a significant step forward for inclusivity.
Dahir Jama Diriye, chairman of the Somaliland Disability Association, emphasized the growing awareness among the disabled community of their voting rights. “With each election, people with disabilities in Somaliland are more aware of their right to participate,” he said. Diriye also stressed the need for family support, noting, “Those who live with disabled persons should assist them to ensure they can reach the polling stations.”
Polls are scheduled to close at 6 p.m. local time, with counting set to begin immediately. Preliminary results from each district are expected within 48 hours, followed by regional tallies, and final results projected to be released within seven days, according to Somaliland Electoral Commission Chairman Muse Hassan Haji Yusuf.
“The full consolidation of results across polling stations, districts, and regions will take about a week,” Yusuf explained. He assured the public of transparency, with updates provided through media outlets throughout the counting process. Presidential candidates have pledged to respect the outcome, underscoring the commitment to a peaceful and democratic process.
- With files from the BBC Somali Service