Somaliland marked a significant democratic milestone on November 13, 2024, conducting an innovative dual election that combined presidential polls with a groundbreaking vote to restructure its political landscape. International observers deployed across the region reported generally peaceful voting conditions despite some organizational challenges.
The International Election Observation Mission (IEOM), monitoring 146 polling stations throughout Somaliland's six regions, documented a process that allowed citizens to participate freely in this unique democratic exercise. Voters faced the unprecedented task of casting two crucial ballots – one to elect their president and another to determine which political associations would gain official party status for the next decade.
Three presidential contenders vied for leadership: incumbent Muse Bihi Abdi (Kulmiye party), Abdirahman Abdilahi Irro (Waddani), and Faisal Ali Hussein (Justice and Welfare Party - UCID). Simultaneously, political associations competed for the coveted status of official parties, with success requiring both strong national performance and at least 20% support in each of Somaliland's six regions.
While observers noted some procedural inconsistencies and identified areas where poll worker training could be improved, they found no evidence of serious electoral misconduct. They did, however, express concerns about voting privacy for citizens requiring assistance, recommending the adoption of international best practices for future elections.
The National Electoral Commission (NEC) received praise for its management of this complex electoral process, having earned the confidence of all political stakeholders before election day. Observers particularly noted the significant involvement of women in election administration and as party representatives, especially in urban areas, while pointing out the absence of female candidates in the presidential race.
This electoral exercise represents Somaliland's eighth democratic event since its 1991 independence declaration, showcasing the region's commitment to democratic principles despite lacking international recognition. As vote counting continues, the process stands as a testament to Somaliland's willingness to innovate within its constitutional framework of a three-party system.
The election's outcome will shape Somaliland's political framework for the next decade, as successful political associations will gain the right to participate in all elections through 2034. This reform represents a significant evolution in how Somaliland selects its official political parties, moving from indirect selection based on local election results to direct voter choice.
