Abdirahman Cirro Elected Somaliland President

Abdirahman Cirro, leader of the opposition Waddani party, has won the Somaliland presidential election with 64% of the vote, defeating incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi, who received 35%. This election, delayed for two years, reflects Somaliland's ongoing pursuit of international recognition since it declared independence from Somalia in 1991. Cirro's victory signals a potential shift in policy, as he has pledged to enhance efforts for recognition, particularly following a preliminary agreement with Ethiopia that would grant the landlocked nation access to the sea. However, the deal has provoked tensions with Somalia, which views it as infringing on its sovereignty and may complicate relations with Ethiopia, a key player in regional peacekeeping. Analysts express caution about Cirro's commitment to the agreement with Ethiopia, suggesting he may pursue dialogue with Somalia instead. Somaliland's hope for recognition is buoyed by the expectation of support from the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump.