Firdhiye Elected President of Somalia’s North Eastern State after Rival Withdraws

GOOBJOOG NEWS | LAASCAANOOD: Abdulqadir Ahmed Aw Cali Firdhiye has been elected President of Somalia’s North Eastern State after rival candidate Abdirisaaq Khalif withdrew in the second round of voting on Saturday.

The election took place in Laascaanood, the state capital, under tight security. Lawmakers of the regional parliament cast their votes following weeks of campaigning by candidates vying for the top leadership post.

Firdhiye, who previously served as the region’s interim leader, secured his position after Khalif, a former Speaker of Somaliland’s Parliament, announced his withdrawal during the second round, paving the way for a decisive outcome.

The new leadership is expected to steer the state through a delicate political transition, two years after local forces expelled Somaliland’s troops from the area following months of fighting.

Authorities have urged unity and reconciliation as Firdhiye takes office, highlighting the significance of the election for stability in the region.