(08-01-24) GAROWE (Halqabsi News) — Said Abdullahi Deni has been re-elected as the President of Puntland, a federal member state in eastern Somalia, following an election on Monday in Garowe city. This development comes amidst a backdrop of political tensions within the region.
Deni’s victory was confirmed in the third round of the presidential election, where he secured 45 votes against his main opponent, Guled Salah Barre, who received 21 votes. The election, which witnessed the participation of sixty-six regional parliamentarians, was marked by the presence of notable Somali political figures, including former foreign ministers Ahmed Awad and Abshir Jama Haruse, alongside Guled Salah Barre, the previous head of the Puntland election committee.
The re-election of President Deni occurs at a crucial time for Puntland. The region, known for its oil and gas reserves, has yet to see significant commercial extraction due to persistent violence and longstanding disagreements with the national government over legislative matters concerning the energy sector and electoral reforms.
The Federal Government of Somalia has acknowledged Deni’s re-election, a move that may indicate a potential for improved relations between Puntland and the central government.
This election is key for Puntland, potentially influencing its future political direction, especially regarding its natural resources and the relationship with Somalia’s federal authorities.
Halqabsi News
