Somaliland’s new leader, Ahmed Mohamed Sillanyo, was sworn in as the fourth president of Somaliland on Tuesday, furthering the country’s democratic credentials as it fights for international recognition.
International observers said June’s election had been largely free and fair, and was seen as an impressive achievement when compared to the two decades of civil war in southern and central Somalia, where foreign peacekeepers prop up an almost powerless government in the face of an Islamist insurgency.
“I am handing over the presidency with good spirit, and welcome President Sillanyo, who won the election,” outgoing President Dahir Rayale Kahin said at the ceremony.
I tell my supporters that the campaign and election are over and that the people of Somaliland are expected to unite and work for the future of Somaliland and recognition.
Colonized by Britain while the rest of Somalia was under Italian administration, Somaliland restored its independence in 1991 as Somalia disintegrated into anarchy. However, the African Union and foreign powers have not recognized Somaliland.
Sillanyo, who will make his official inauguration speech on Wednesday and announce his cabinet, pledged equality and justice and said he would strive to strengthen Somaliland’s democracy.
Somaliland won independence from Britain in June 26, 1960, just a few days before Italy relinquished control of southern and central Somalia. The Republic of Somalia was created, but Somaliland rapidly felt marginalized.
Years of fighting against the south ensued and galvanized Somaliland’s population, dominated by a single clan, to turn its back on civil war and seek independence.
The elections were held on June 26, on the day of the 50th anniversary of independence from Britain.
The polls were originally slated for 2008 but were delayed by a protracted dispute over voter registration.
Last month’s election was nonetheless held without any violence, despite a hard-fought campaign, and the incumbent gracefully conceded defeat after a ballot that foreign observers hailed as generally fair.
Many voters and politicians have voiced hope that the smooth transfer of power would once again prove their democratic credentials and strengthen their territory’s case for international recognition.
Some Western countries argue Somaliland deserves to become a fully-fledged country and thus gain access to more aid, but the African Union is wary of setting a precedent they fear could spur secessions across the continent.
