Saturday August 23, 2025
Las Anod (HOL) — Lawmakers of Somalia’s newly formed Northeastern state on Saturday elected Dr. Adan Abdullahi Aw Hassan as speaker of the regional parliament, a key step toward completing the establishment of the federal member state.
Dr. Adan Abdullahi secured 53 votes against his rival, Abdiqafaar Dheeliye, who received 29. One vote was declared invalid. Also, the electoral commission said.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre congratulated Dr. Adan Abdullahi on his election, expressing confidence in his ability to guide the state-building process.
“I hope that God will make it easy for the new Speaker to fulfill the heavy responsibility entrusted to him, as I believe that he will play a prominent role in ensuring state-building, completing the electoral process and upholding the rule of law,” President Mohamud said in a statement.
Prime Minister Hamza praised the lawmakers for what he called an “outstanding performance” in fulfilling their constitutional duties.
MP Amran Ahmed Hassan was also elected as the first deputy speaker.
The Federal Government of Somalia has said the process will be finalized once a president is elected. Incumbent President Firdhiye, who reportedly enjoys strong federal backing, is campaigning to retain his position.
The new administration faces significant challenges, including asserting control over Sanaag Bari — a region currently under Puntland’s authority. Earlier this week, senior Warsangeli clan elders voiced strong opposition to the Northeastern state.
In response, Puntland has deployed additional troops to the Sanaag region to counter the new administration’s influence, heightening fears of a possible armed confrontation.