Hargeisa,(SONNA)Somaliland Electoral Commission announced on Tuesday that Waddani Party leader Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, popularly known as Irro, has won the November 17 presidential election with 63.92% of the votes, according to preliminary results. Irro’s decisive victory paves the way for him to become the next President of Somaliland, succeeding Muse Bihi Abdi, who has served as president for the past seven years.
Born in Hargeisa in 1955, Irro received his education in Hargeisa and Mogadishu before embarking on a distinguished career in public service. Between 1980 and 1988, he served as a senior diplomat for Somalia, gaining extensive experience in governance and international relations.
The election, in which over one million citizens cast their votes, has been widely praised for its peaceful and orderly conduct. The Somali government commended the people of Somaliland for showcasing democratic maturity during the process. The election also included the selection of a vice president, reflecting Somaliland’s commitment to democratic governance.
The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended his heartfelt congratulations to Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro), the newly elected President of the Somaliland administration in northern Somalia, along with his deputy, Mohamed Aw-Ali Abdi.
In his statement, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also congratulated the political parties of Waddani, Kaah, and Kulmiye for their roles in strengthening Somaliland’s political landscape.
The President further commended the Somaliland community for the maturity, understanding, and patience they demonstrated throughout the electoral process, emphasizing its importance in advancing the democratic aspirations of the region.
