Somaliland’s opposition leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, widely known as “Irro,” has won the presidential election, marking a pivotal moment in the self-declared republic’s political journey.
Irro secured a decisive victory with 63.92 percent of the vote, far outpacing incumbent Muse Bihi’s 34.81 percent, election officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The win signals a public call for change and unity in a region long isolated since its 1991 declaration of independence from Somalia.
In his first remarks, Irro emphasized national solidarity, saying, “Today, our talk is us, citizens of the nation of Somaliland in unity.”
Set to take office on December 14, Irro inherits a nation at a crossroads — both diplomatically and domestically.
Tensions remain high after a maritime deal between Somaliland and Ethiopia angered Somalia and stirred regional unease.
The agreement, brokered by outgoing president Bihi, offered Ethiopia access to Somaliland’s coastline, allegedly in exchange for diplomatic recognition.
Although Addis Ababa has not confirmed this, the move has sparked military escalation and diplomatic fallout across the Horn of Africa.
Irro, 68, has promised to be a unifying figure in contrast to Bihi, whom he accuses of sowing clan divisions and mishandling conflicts in the Sool region.
A former parliamentary speaker and Finnish citizen, Irro offers few specifics on policy but vows to pursue development and reconciliation.
Ethiopia and Somalia both issued cautious congratulations, with Mogadishu expressing hope for renewed dialogue and peace.
Despite operating with its own currency, military, and government, Somaliland remains unrecognized internationally, limiting its access to aid and investment.
Irro’s presidency now raises hopes — and tests — for bridging internal divides and reviving Somaliland’s long-stalled bid for recognition on the global stage.
