In a most significant event held at the Ambassador Hotel on Tuesday, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Irro), presented the official certificates licensing the country’s three national political parties WADDANI, KAAH, and KULMIYE to become the only political organizations to operate for a tenure of ten years as per the national constitution.
This is after they emerged triumphant in the just concluded national elections. The ceremony marks the beginning of a new ten-year period for these parties, starting from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2034.
The event, organized by the Committee for the Registration and Approval of Political Associations and Parties was attended by prominent political figures, including former Vice Presidents Ahmed Yusuf Yasin and Abdirahman Abdillahi Ismail (Sayli’i), as well as the chairmen of the three national parties: Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan (WADDANI), Mohamoud Hashi Abdi (KAAH), and Mohamed Kahin Ahmed (KULMIYE).
In his keynote speech, the President praised the committee for its diligent efforts in facilitating a transparent and lawful process for selecting political associations eligible to participate in elections. He also commended the National Electoral Commission and key stakeholders in Somaliland’s democratic system for their contributions to advancing the country’s political stability and electoral integrity.
“Our election process reflects our political maturity, the resilience of our democracy, and our confidence in the continued progress of our political institutions,” the President stated.
He further highlighted the broader principles of democracy, saying, “Democracy goes beyond elections. It includes justice, respect for civil liberties, good governance, combating corruption, the rule of law, political stability, and strengthening national unity and security. These are priorities that this administration is fully committed to.”
Committee’s Mandate and Achievements
The ceremony began with an address by the Chairman of the Committee for the Registration of Political Associations and Approval of National Parties, Mr. Saeed Mohamed Elmi (Siraadle) who outlined the committee’s responsibilities, including the registration of political associations, approval of national parties, resolving disputes, ensuring women’s representation, and promoting internal democracy within political organizations.
He also highlighted the committee’s strategic plans, which include reforms in its structure, the development of a strategic roadmap for 2023–2027, and leveraging technology for data management and transparency.
“The committee has played a pivotal role in advancing democracy and ensuring a multi-party system that fosters competition and accountability,” Mr. Siraadle remarked.
Voices from the Event
Senior political advisor to the President, Mr. Abdiqadir Haji Ismail Jirde, emphasized the importance of adherence to democratic principles, stating: “True independence means abiding by the rules we establish and respecting the outcomes they yield.”
Chairman of the Non-Governmental Organizations Network (SONSAF), Mr. Anwar Abdirahman Warsame, termed the event a historic milestone: “Today, we officially inaugurate the three national parties that will shape Somaliland’s political future for the next decade. Political parties are platforms for shaping national policies and grooming future leaders.”
A Decade of Political Stability
The ceremony concluded with the Head of State presenting official licenses to the chairmen of WADDANI, KAAH, and KULMIYE, symbolizing their official recognition as national parties. This development underscores Somaliland’s commitment to political stability and democratic governance as the nation prepares for the next decade of political and social progress.
As Somaliland continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, this moment marks a significant step forward in the country’s political evolution, providing a solid foundation for free, fair, and inclusive governance in the years to come.
Source: Somaliland News Agency (SOLNA)