A Defining Moment for Somaliland's Democracy

This week, Somaliland stands at a significant crossroads as it prepares for its presidential election on Wednesday. This event marks the 7th election since the country embraced universal suffrage 21 years ago. Since that landmark decision, Somaliland has held a series of local, parliamentary, and presidential elections, all conducted peacefully, earning admiration both domestically and internationally.

Somaliland has maintained a tradition of peaceful and representative elections, which stands in stark contrast to the turbulent electoral histories of many other regions. This legacy of democratic stability serves as a beacon of hope for the nation, reflecting the people's desire for a participatory governance system that allows them to shape their future.

The upcoming election is expected to be no different, with the people of Somaliland seeing it as an opportunity to affect change. Whether driven by patriotism or more localized clan interests, the electorate is united by the desire to use their votes to improve their lives. Elections here are not just about selecting leaders; they are about granting citizens dignity, enabling them to steer their country's destiny, and providing leaders with a legitimate mandate to govern.

However, Somaliland's electoral process is not without its challenges. Weak institutions, particularly in the judiciary, national electoral commission, and parliament, have sometimes failed to provide the necessary checks on executive power. This has led to delayed elections, extended terms for elected officials, political infighting, public polarization, and growing distrust in government proposals.

This presidential election could be particularly consequential. If conducted freely and fairly, it holds the promise of healing national wounds, renewing faith in democratic processes, and advancing development. The nation is still reeling from the conflict in the Sool region last year, which severely impacted national cohesion. The societal divides that have widened since the 2017 presidential elections only add to the urgency of a transparent electoral process.

The responsibility for ensuring a fair election largely falls on the principal contenders—President Muse Bihi of the Kulmiye party and his challenger, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi of the WADDANI party. While both candidates share the duty to uphold election integrity, President Bihi, as the incumbent, carries greater constitutional authority over national security.

His recent remarks, particularly his reconciliatory address to the nation, contrast sharply with his earlier contentious comments on BBC Somali section interview, in which he said in Somali "marka aad ogaato in garta lagaa helayo, cuyub baa loo rogaa”- which roughly means: when you learn that you are losing the argument you twist the issue”. The comment raised eyebrows and some interpreted it as his possible intentions should he face defeat.

Many hope that President Bihi will avoid the pitfalls of contentious election, mindful of his political legacy already marred by the impact of last year's unfortunate war in Sool. The stakes are high, and the choice between two potential futures rests largely with the candidates' actions in the coming days.

As Somaliland approaches this pivotal moment, optimism abounds that the nation will once again, demonstrate its commitment to peaceful and democratic principles. Therein lies the hope that, regardless of the outcome, the election will reinforce Somaliland's standing as an exemplar of democracy in the region.