Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somali leaders, including Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, have congratulated Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” on his election as the new President of Somaliland. Irro was declared the winner by Somaliland’s electoral commission, securing 63.92% of the votes in the November 17 election.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre expressed hope that Irro’s leadership would reignite talks between Somaliland and Somalia, focusing on unity and reconciliation. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing bilateral discussions for peace and cohesion among the Somali people.

Former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire commended the election process and lauded the peaceful democratic practices of the Somaliland people. He urged President Irro to lead Somaliland on a path of peace, development, and democracy while fostering Somali unity.

Abdirahman Abdishakur, a federal MP, praised the political maturity demonstrated by Somaliland during the election, highlighting the leadership transition as an example for the broader Somali political landscape.

The election saw incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye Party concede defeat after garnering 34.81% of the votes. Mohamed Ali Abdi of the Waddani Party was elected as Somaliland’s Deputy President.

Over 1.2 million voters participated in the peaceful election, choosing their president and deputy for a five-year term. Leaders from across Somalia welcomed the election outcome, recognizing it as a democratic milestone for Somaliland.