MOGADISHU, Somalia – Members of Somalia’s North-East Parliament elected Abdulkadir Ahmed Aw-Cali (Firdhiye) as President following an election in Las Anod, Sool region.
Firdhiye won after a race with five candidates, defeating Abdirisak Khalif in the second round of voting.
He received 62 votes, while his opponent secured 18. Parliament declared him the winner, granting him a five-year term.
Firdhiye’s victory sparked celebrations across Las Anod, with large crowds welcoming him and marking a significant political shift.
The newly elected vice president, Abdirashid Yusuf Jibril (Abwaan), received 65 votes in a hand-raising vote, as other candidates withdrew.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud congratulated Firdhiye and Abwaan, praising the maturity shown by all candidates and the parliament during the election.
President Mohamud expressed hope that Firdhiye and Jibril would lead the North-East Administration toward peace, progress and governance in the region.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre also congratulated the new leaders, stressing the political maturity and dedication of the North-East people in achieving good governance.
Firdhiye’s victory, supported by the federal government, marks a significant moment for the region, with celebrations continuing in Las Anod as a new regional state begins.