Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, popularly known as Irro, has emerged victorious in Somaliland’s presidential election, securing 64% of the vote. At 69 years old, Irro takes the helm as Somaliland’s sixth president, a position he will assume after defeating the incumbent, Musa Abdi Bihi, who garnered 35% of the vote. Bihi, who had led the breakaway region since 2017, faced criticism for his paternalistic leadership style, especially as Somaliland grapples with economic challenges, including a weakened local currency.
The election, held on November 13, was observed by diplomats from nine European nations and the United States. Originally set for late 2022, it had been delayed. Despite its relative stability and regular democratic elections, Somaliland remains unrecognized on the international stage.
Somaliland, located strategically near the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, faces significant diplomatic challenges under Irro’s leadership. One pressing issue is the controversial lease agreement with Ethiopia, which has secured a 20-kilometer stretch of Somaliland’s coastline to establish a naval base. In return, Somaliland expects international recognition, particularly from Ethiopia, which could shift the region’s geopolitical standing. This agreement has sparked anger in Somalia, which considers Somaliland a part of its territory.
Irro’s leadership comes at a critical time. Somaliland, which declared its independence from Somalia in 1991, has successfully rebuilt Hargeisa, its capital, after suffering heavy losses during the civil war, including massive aerial bombardments. While Somalia, which collapsed into anarchy and continues to face challenges such as Islamist militants, has not held direct elections, Somaliland has established a robust democratic system with its own currency, institutions, and security forces.
Born in Hargeisa, Irro spent part of his childhood in Somalia before moving to the United States, where he earned a master’s degree in business administration. His early career in diplomacy included serving as Somalia’s acting ambassador to the Soviet Union during the civil war. Irro’s family fled to Finland during the conflict, and he later joined them, obtaining Finnish citizenship.
Returning to Somaliland in 2002, Irro co-founded the opposition Justice and Welfare Party (UCID) and later founded the Wadani Party, a powerful political force that helped propel him to victory in the 2024 election. His background in diplomacy, along with his long tenure as speaker of the parliament, has shaped his approach to leadership, making him a key figure in Somaliland’s ongoing quest for international recognition and stability.
