Fighting corruption, improving the economy and reducing poverty will be the key areas newly inaugurated Somaliland president Abdirahman looks to tackle in his leadership.
At the same time, Irro who took over the reins of leadership in the country on Thursday said the relentless push for Somaliland recognition internationally will continue and go a not higher.
While addressing the nation and dignitaries invited during his inauguration on Thursday, Irro stated that his government will have zero tolerance on corruption which has been taking root in the country.
‘I am committed to revitalizing and growing our economy to improve the lives of our citizens and reduce poverty. The new administration will have zero tolerance for corruption and the embezzlement of public funds,” he said.
He added: “We will strengthen the free market, create policies that encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, and attract foreign investment. To all potential investors, I extend an open invitation to a nation rich in resources and ready for investment.
He said as a country, Somaliland face ssignificant challenges, including economic hardship, security concerns, public debt, and the need for stronger international ties. Overcoming these obstacles, he said, will require time, perseverance, and tough decisions.
“I am confident that with collective effort and unity, we can overcome any adversity.”
Irro who won the majority vote on November 13 dislodging outgoing president Muse Bihi said his leadership will focus on projects that create jobs for our youth, working with local banks to facilitate loans and support for small businesses.
“Currently, our nation depends heavily on imports. My vision is to increase domestic production and harness our rich natural resources to sell to international markets.”
Irro said the incoming leadership will prioritize the improvement of education, healthcare services—especially for mothers and children—the quality of medicines and food entering the country, environmental conservation, and providing clean water to our citizens.
“The impacts of climate change, evident in recent years, threaten agriculture and livestock, which are our natural wealth. We will work with international organizations to mitigate these challenges and strengthen our resilience to climate change.
“Social justice will be a cornerstone of our governance. We will ensure that women and marginalized communities have equitable representation in political decision-making.
He said his administration will invest in the education and skills development of our youth, who are the backbone of our society, enabling them to actively contribute to the country’s development and prepare for leadership role.
Irro said unity and inclusivity are the foundation of Somaliland nationhood.
”Only through solidarity can we overcome internal and external challenges and accelerate our progress toward national goals.
“While upholding the values and principles of our people and respecting national and international laws, we will pursue peaceful diplomatic solutions to conflicts in eastern Somaliland and along our borders,” he stated.
He said that fair political representation is essential for national unity and strengthening our democracy. “I pledge to ensure that every citizen has a voice in the governance of our nation.
“Freedom of expression and civic participation are central to our democracy. Citizens will have the opportunity to contribute to national decision-making and development, within the framework of our laws and Constitution.”
On the issue of the Sool region which was the epicenter of internal civil strife, Irro said: “My administration is ready to initiate a peace process in eastern Somaliland, extending an unconditional invitation to dialogue and political solutions. This will pave the way for peaceful coexistence, open trade, and the exchange of prisoners, reflecting the stronger bonds that unite us over the divisions that separate us.
”I call upon traditional leaders, intellectuals, religious figures, and the international community to support our efforts to restore the spirit of brotherhood and coexistence in the Sool region.”
On international relations the incoming president said as a young nation striving for international recognition, Somaliland will prioritize diplomacy and global cooperation adding that despite limited external support, Somaliland has succeeded in building a stable state and meaningful democracy.
“We will continue to advocate for global recognition of our sovereignty, grounded in a sound legal case.
“The new government will restore and strengthen international partnerships to position Somaliland as a key player in the stability and security of the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.”
He thanked the international community for its continued support of Somaliland.
“I thank you for your unwavering support, which many of you have extended to Somaliland’s democratic journey, as well as the developmental and humanitarian aid you provide to our nation and people.”
