Somaliland’s Political Tensions Ahead of Upcoming Elections
Faysal Abdirahman Madar’s Accusation Against Waddani
On 5 November 2025, Faysal Abdirahman Madar, the Secretary General of the Kulmiye Party, launched a significant accusation against the ruling Waddani Party concerning the integrity of the election process in Somaliland. He alleged that Waddani is attempting to delay the upcoming House of Representatives and Local Council elections by rejecting crucial agreements that have been proposed to govern the electoral process. This accusation sends ripples through the political landscape, raising concerns about the commitment of parties to upholding democratic principles in the region.
Background of Political Agreements
The political tension stems from previous agreements made by the three main political parties in Somaliland—Kulmiye, Waddani, and KAAH. These parties had reached a consensus through a technical committee tasked with addressing voter registration and other election-related matters. However, according to Madar, Waddani’s withdrawal from this collective agreement has complicated the election process and potentially jeopardized the timeline for the elections. This development is disheartening for voters looking forward to participating in a democratic election cycle.
Changing Positions and Promises
Faysal highlighted a concerning shift in Waddani’s position, stating, “Some parties stood by their commitments and showed a clear position. Waddani initially agreed with us, but then changed their stance.” This assertion points to a breach of trust among the political factions, suggesting that the initial spirit of cooperation has given way to political maneuvering which may compromise the electoral process. Such fluctuations in party stances could sow distrust among constituents, who rely on these parties for their representation and governance.
Meetings with President Abdirahman Irro
In August, attempts were made to resolve these pressing election-related issues. Meetings between Kulmiye, KAAH, and President Abdirahman Irro were convened to discuss matters concerning voter registration and other election logistics. During these meetings, it was reported that President Irro expressed regret over allegations of government ministers interfering with the work of the Election Commission. This admission signifies an acknowledgment of the tensions affecting the election process, but whether it will lead to substantive changes remains uncertain.
Counterclaims from Waddani
In a twist of events, Waddani has accused Kulmiye of plotting to delay the elections scheduled for May 2026. These counterclaims add another layer of complexity to the already tense atmosphere, as both parties exchange accusations rather than collaborating toward a common goal of ensuring fair and timely elections. Such rhetoric can exacerbate divisions among supporters and erode public confidence in the political system.
Kulmiye’s Stance on Election Timeliness
Despite the allegations from Waddani, Secretary General Faysal Madar has firmly denied any intentions from Kulmiye to postpone the elections. He maintains that his party has consistently advocated for holding the elections on schedule. This commitment is crucial as Somaliland prepares for its upcoming democratic process, highlighting Kulmiye’s intention to uphold electoral integrity amidst political turmoil.
The Significance of the Upcoming Elections
Somaliland’s House of Representatives and Local Council elections are pivotal, occurring every five years. The last electoral exercise took place in May 2021, and as citizens anticipate the next round of voting, the political climate must foster a fair environment. Candidates and party leaders play a vital role in shaping the narrative and actions leading to the elections, influencing how Somaliland’s democratic framework will evolve.
Looking Ahead
As the political drama unfolds in Somaliland, it becomes increasingly important for all parties involved to prioritize transparency, cooperation, and the needs of their constituents. The decisions made in the coming months will undoubtedly influence the stability and democratic integrity of Somaliland’s future. Voters will be closely watching how their leaders navigate this tumultuous landscape leading up to the elections in May 2026.
