By Abdi Halim M Musa
(E-mail: halimusa4@gmail.com)
As Somaliland approaches the presidential election on November 13, 2024, the nation finds itself at a crossroads. The choice before the people is more than just about who will lead for the next five years—it is a decision that will shape Somaliland’s future on the international stage. Over the last seven years, President Muse Bihi’s leadership has failed to deliver the diplomatic progress and global partnerships Somaliland desperately needs.
In contrast, Dr. Abdirahman Cirro, the Waddani Party’s presidential candidate, offers a bold and visionary approach to foreign policy and international cooperation, grounded in the pledges of Pillar 5 of the Waddani Party manifesto.
Pillar 5 of the Waddani manifesto is a comprehensive and strategic blueprint that outlines a new era for Somaliland’s role in the global arena. This pillar focuses on diplomacy, international recognition, regional stability, and creating partnerships that will drive economic and social progress. It reflects a vision of Somaliland that is no longer isolated but engaged, respected, and proactive on the world stage.
When President Muse Bihi assumed office, there were hopes that his administration would push Somaliland closer to achieving its long-sought international recognition. However, seven years later, the reality is that Somaliland remains as diplomatically isolated as ever. Despite early promises of securing new avenues for recognition and partnerships, Bihi’s government has failed to make any meaningful breakthroughs in this regard.
Under Bihi, Somaliland’s diplomatic outreach has been weak and ineffective. Embassies that should have been building strong ties with neighboring countries, regional powers, and global institutions have remained underfunded and underutilized. The dialogue with Somalia, which has been ongoing for over a decade, has seen little progress, leaving Somaliland in limbo. Instead of adopting an assertive foreign policy, Bihi’s government has largely resorted to maintaining the status quo, offering no solutions or innovations to advance Somaliland’s diplomatic agenda.
Muse Bihi has failed to lead Somaliland in this regard, leaving the nation stranded in a cycle of diplomatic inertia. Somaliland deserves a leader who will bring fresh energy, strategic thinking, and global engagement to the forefront of its foreign policy.
Dr. Abdirahman Cirro’s foreign policy agenda, as outlined in Pillar 5 of the Waddani manifesto, represents a transformative approach to international cooperation. Dr. Cirro understands that Somaliland must take bold steps to achieve recognition and establish itself as a respected member of the international community. His vision is grounded in diplomacy, dialogue, and strategic partnerships that will open new doors for Somaliland’s future.
At the core of Dr. Cirro’s foreign policy is the pursuit of full international recognition for Somaliland. Unlike President Bihi’s government, which has failed to create momentum in this area, Dr. Cirro is committed to actively engaging with key global players, including the African Union, the United Nations, and regional bodies. His government will prioritize diplomatic efforts aimed at securing recognition and ensuring that Somaliland’s voice is heard on the global stage.
One of the key pledges in Pillar 5 is to establish a Foreign Affairs Council composed of experts, diplomats, and foreign policy professionals to advise on international strategies. This council will be tasked with developing a comprehensive foreign policy roadmap, identifying potential diplomatic opportunities, and expanding Somaliland’s influence in the Horn of Africa and beyond. This structured approach contrasts sharply with the reactive and directionless foreign policy of the current administration.
As part of this diplomatic renewal, Dr. Cirro also pledges to strengthen Somaliland’s relationships with neighboring countries. He recognizes that regional stability and cooperation are essential for Somaliland’s future prosperity. His government will work closely with Ethiopia, Djibouti, and Kenya, fostering stronger economic, security, and cultural ties. By focusing on regional partnerships, Dr. Cirro aims to position Somaliland as a key player in the Horn of Africa, contributing to peace and development in the region.
Another critical aspect of Pillar 5 is Dr. Cirro’s commitment to economic diplomacy. Somaliland’s economic potential, particularly in sectors like fisheries, agriculture, and livestock, remains untapped due to the country’s isolation from international markets. Dr. Cirro’s government will actively pursue trade agreements and economic partnerships that will open new markets for Somaliland’s goods and services. By forging trade relations with regional and global partners, Somaliland can unlock opportunities for growth and investment.
Dr. Cirro also pledges to expand Somaliland’s participation in international organizations and forums. He believes that Somaliland’s contributions to regional and global issues, such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and climate change, deserve recognition. By taking an active role in these areas, Somaliland can strengthen its case for international recognition and become a valued partner in addressing global challenges.
Dr. Cirro’s approach to diplomacy reflects this understanding of nuance and strategy. His government will use every tool at its disposal to advance Somaliland’s interests, whether through bilateral agreements, multilateral forums, or strategic partnerships with global powers.
His foreign policy vision represents a stark departure from the failures of the past. Where President Bihi’s administration has been passive and reactive, Dr. Cirro’s leadership will be proactive, innovative, and driven by a clear sense of purpose. Under his government, Somaliland will not only seek recognition but will assert its rightful place as a responsible and contributing member of the international community.
Dr. Cirro has already demonstrated his commitment to surrounding himself with capable, experienced, and dedicated individuals who share his vision for a better Somaliland. His government will be built on a foundation of expertise, integrity, and strategic thinking—qualities that have been sorely lacking under President Bihi’s leadership.
The 2024 election is a defining moment for Somaliland. The choice before the electorate is clear: a continuation of the diplomatic stagnation, failed promises, and lack of direction under President Muse Bihi, or a new path forward under Dr. Abdirahman Cirro and the Waddani Party. With Pillar 5 of the Waddani manifesto as a guiding framework, Dr. Cirro promises to restore Somaliland’s standing in the world, pursue recognition, and build lasting partnerships that will benefit future generations.
On November 13, 2024, the people of Somaliland have the opportunity to secure their future by electing a leader who will take decisive action, restore hope, and put Somaliland on the path to progress. Dr. Abdirahman Cirro is that leader. His vision for foreign affairs and international cooperation is the vision that Somaliland needs in order to thrive in an interconnected world.
Vote for Dr. Abdirahman Cirro, vote for the Waddani Party, and let us together build a stronger, more prosperous Somaliland, respected on the global stage and ready to face the challenges of the future.
The writer is the Public Relations Secretary of Waddani Party
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