Somaliland: Peaceful Elections Heard Around The World
Ahmed Kheyre
June 26, 2010
On the 50th anniversary of Somalilandīs independence from the United Kingdom on the 26th of June, 1960, The Republic of Somaliland has held its second directly elected Presidential contest since reclaiming sovereignty in 1991.
A large voter turn out across the country has put to rest the notion that Somaliland should not take its place among the sovereign nations of the world. It is clear, even to the most obtuse opponents of Somaliland; the people have spoken despite threats from Islamic fundamentalist, rag-tag militias in the southeast and other sundry non-entities of the region.
Somaliland has once again, for the umpteenth time, shown its political maturity and democratic credentials. It is time for the international community to come to its senses and recognize Somaliland, as not only a de-facto state, but a de-jure state.
So much has been made of the lack of international recognition, but, there is no denying the wishes of the people of Somaliland. If these voters are willing to go the polling station at 3 am, four hours before the voting commences, travel from overseas just to vote, or show their courage and commitment in the face of terrorist threats, then, the international community which places so much emphasis on democracy, will have to recognize Somalilandīs de-jure recognition.
For the first time in Somaliland, and for that matter the defunct Somali Republic, free and fair elections have been held using modern technology, a complete voter list, free media and under the watchful eye of international observers. How many nations across the globe can boast such credentials, let alone an unrecognised nation?
Billions and billions have been spent on Somalia, yet, murder and mayhem continue in Mogadishu with no respite in site. In contrast, Somaliland has, through itīs tried and test formula of dialogue, discussion and consensus just held its second free and fair presidential elections in seven years, with a budget less then 10 million dollars.
It is clear, that Somaliland and its people have embarked on a journey which will determine that nationīs destiny once and for all.
It is time for winner to be magnanimous, the vanquished to be gracious, and for the international community to acknowledge the truth, Somaliland is a beacon of peace, hope and democracy in the Horn of Africa and deserves de-jure recognition.
A large voter turn out across the country has put to rest the notion that Somaliland should not take its place among the sovereign nations of the world. It is clear, even to the most obtuse opponents of Somaliland; the people have spoken despite threats from Islamic fundamentalist, rag-tag militias in the southeast and other sundry non-entities of the region.
Somaliland has once again, for the umpteenth time, shown its political maturity and democratic credentials. It is time for the international community to come to its senses and recognize Somaliland, as not only a de-facto state, but a de-jure state.
So much has been made of the lack of international recognition, but, there is no denying the wishes of the people of Somaliland. If these voters are willing to go the polling station at 3 am, four hours before the voting commences, travel from overseas just to vote, or show their courage and commitment in the face of terrorist threats, then, the international community which places so much emphasis on democracy, will have to recognize Somalilandīs de-jure recognition.
For the first time in Somaliland, and for that matter the defunct Somali Republic, free and fair elections have been held using modern technology, a complete voter list, free media and under the watchful eye of international observers. How many nations across the globe can boast such credentials, let alone an unrecognised nation?
Billions and billions have been spent on Somalia, yet, murder and mayhem continue in Mogadishu with no respite in site. In contrast, Somaliland has, through itīs tried and test formula of dialogue, discussion and consensus just held its second free and fair presidential elections in seven years, with a budget less then 10 million dollars.
It is clear, that Somaliland and its people have embarked on a journey which will determine that nationīs destiny once and for all.
It is time for winner to be magnanimous, the vanquished to be gracious, and for the international community to acknowledge the truth, Somaliland is a beacon of peace, hope and democracy in the Horn of Africa and deserves de-jure recognition.