LASANOD, Somalia – Abdilrisaaq Khaliif, a former presidential contender in Somalia’s Northeastern regional administration, offered his congratulations to the newly elected leadership on Sunday, following a closely watched vote in the contested region.
Khaliif praised the election of President Abdilqaadir Axmed Awcali, widely known as Firdhiye, and Vice President Cabdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil, expressing support for a peaceful transition and unity among the people.
“I congratulate the new leadership of the Northeastern administration, President Abdilqaadir Axmed Awcali (Firdhiye) and Vice President Cabdirashiid Yuusuf Jibriil. I pray to God to ease their duties and responsibilities,” he said in a public statement.
Acknowledging what he described as “technical errors” in the voting process, Khaliif nonetheless accepted the result, urging the region’s residents to prioritize reconciliation and state-building.
“Although there were technical errors during the election process that caused disputes and divisions, I acknowledge the circumstances of my people and the unity of the community,” he said. “I commend the outcome of the election and the ongoing state-building process.”
Khaliif also thanked members of the regional parliament, electoral commission, and security forces for overseeing the election process in the face of political tension and logistical challenges.
Calling for unity, Khaliif urged the new leadership to prioritize social cohesion.
“Unity and solidarity always benefit us,” he said. “We are committed to moving forward together with good cooperation.”
The election marks a pivotal moment for the Northeastern administration, which remains at the centre of broader political dynamics in Somalia’s federal landscape.
