North Eastern State Holds Presidential, VP Elections in Laascaanood

GOOBJOOG NEWS | LAASCAANOOD: Laascaanood, the capital of Somalia’s Sool region, is today hosting the much-anticipated elections for the president and vice president of the North Eastern State, in a vote unfolding under tight security.

Lawmakers from the state parliament have convened to elect new leadership, following days of intense campaigns by candidates seeking to secure their backing.

In the hours leading up to the polls, aspirants and parliamentarians gathered in Laascaanood in last-minute efforts to consolidate support and finalize their bids.

Authorities imposed a nighttime curfew across the city, restricting movement of people and vehicles except for authorized officials and candidates. Security forces have also been deployed at strategic locations, with checkpoints established on key roads to maintain order and prevent unrest during the process.

Five candidates are in the race for the presidency: Abdiqaadir Ahmed Aw Cali (Firdhiye), Jamaal Mohamed Hassan, Abdirizack Khalif Ahmed, Rashid Farah Mahamoud, and Mohamud Yusuf Hassan. The competition is expected to be fierce, with each contender bringing distinct visions and promises for the administration.

For the vice-presidency, the candidates include Omar Dahir Hassan, Abdirashid Yussuf Jibril (Abwaan), Abdirizack Mohamed Jamac, Abdisataar Sheekh Omaan Omar, and Mohamed Abdi Bullaale.

The outcome of this election is seen as a critical moment in shaping the political future of the region, which has faced heightened tensions in recent months. As voting progresses, all eyes remain on Laascaanood for results and the direction the new leadership will chart for the North Eastern State.