By Horn Africa News
LASANOD — Abdulkadir Ahmed Ali, widely known as Firdhiye, has been re-elected as President of the Northeastern Somalia Federal Member State following the sudden withdrawal of his main rival, Abdirisak Khalif Ahmed, just before the second round of voting.
Khalif’s decision came in the wake of an endorsement for Firdhiye by Jamal Mohamed, another candidate who had been eliminated in the first round. This political realignment shifted momentum decisively in Firdhiye’s favor, effectively paving the way for his uncontested re-election.
With this victory, Firdhiye secured a fresh five-year mandate to lead the nascent Northeastern Somalia administration, headquartered in Lasanod. His re-election strengthens his standing as one of the region’s most influential figures since the statehood initiative for Northeastern Somalia was launched earlier this year.
The election concludes a months-long process, initiated in July, aimed at formalizing the Northeastern Somalia Federal Member State. The effort has involved local leaders, civil society representatives, and traditional elders, with intermittent support from the Federal Government in Mogadishu.
Firdhiye’s visible backing from federal authorities underscores the national significance of the emerging administration. Political analysts suggest that the establishment of this state could reshape the political landscape in northern Somalia, especially given Lasanod’s historical role as a focal point of territorial and political disputes.
Supporters have praised Firdhiye’s re-election as a move toward stability and continuity. However, the new administration faces considerable challenges, including strengthening governance structures, improving security, and addressing the socio-economic needs of communities affected by years of conflict and marginalization.
Firdhiye’s return to office marks a critical moment in Somalia’s ongoing federalization process and highlights the evolving dynamics of regional politics in the north.
