The President of the Republic of Somaliland, His Excellency Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi (Cirro), today presided over a significant ceremony organized by the Committee for the Registration of Political Organizations and the Approval of National Parties. The event, held at the Ambassador Hotel, marked the official presentation of licenses to the three national political parties—WADDANI, KAAH, and KULMIYE—authorizing their operations for the next decade, from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2034.
In his address, the President highlighted the importance of the democratic process and commended the Committee for the Registration of Political Organizations and the Approval of National Parties for their diligent efforts in ensuring a transparent and lawful selection of political organizations. He extended his gratitude to the National Electoral Commission, the three political parties, and all stakeholders who contributed to strengthening Somaliland’s democratic framework through meaningful and credible elections.
The President underscored that Somaliland’s electoral process reflects the nation’s democratic maturity, political stability, and collective commitment to progress. He affirmed that democracy encompasses more than elections, emphasizing the significance of justice, good governance, civil liberties, anti-corruption measures, the rule of law, political stability, national unity, and security. These principles remain key priorities for the current administration.
The event commenced with remarks by the Chairman of the Committee for the Registration of Political Organizations and the Approval of National Parties, Mr. Siciid Mohamed Elmi (Siraadle). He outlined the committee’s extensive responsibilities, including:
– Registering political organizations
– Approving national parties
– Resolving disputes and addressing complaints
– Promoting women’s representation and internal democracy within political organizations
– Implementing the strategic plan for 2023–2027
– Reforming the committee’s organizational structure
– Drafting bylaws and operational guidelines
– Advancing democracy and the multi-party system
– Leveraging technology for data management and sharing
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including former Vice Presidents Ahmed Yusuf Yasin and Abdirahman Abdillahi Ismail (Saylici), as well as senior officials from the three national parties, led by their respective chairpersons: Hirsi Ali Haji Hassan (WADDANI), Mahamoud Hashi Abdi (KAAH), and Mohamed Kahin Ahmed (KULMIYE).
The President’s Senior Political Advisor, Abdiqadir Haji Ismail Jirde, emphasized the importance of adherence to the rule of law and respect for decisions made through democratic processes.
The Chairman of the Somaliland Non-Governmental Organizations Network (SONSAF), Anwar Abdirahman Warsame, highlighted the historic significance of the occasion, recognizing the pivotal role of political parties in shaping national policies and nurturing future leaders.
At the end of the ceremony, President Abdirahman Irro formally presented licenses to the three national political parties, reaffirming their roles as key pillars of Somaliland’s democratic and political development over the next ten years.
