After the successful municipal elections of last December, Somalilanders will again go to the polls on Monday to elect their president and vice-president for the next 5 years. This is in itself a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the deep commitment Somalilanders have for democracy. It is also worth noting that Somaliland’s transformation to democratic rule is internally-driven and not something that was imposed from outside. This time though, the international community has indicated that it will be watching with keen interest how Somaliland handles its first presidential elections since regaining independence in 1991. It's gratifying for Somalilanders that the world is finally paying attention to their long and lonely struggle for nation building on the one hand and experimentation with democracy on the other. As much as they appreciate the shift in the attitudes of the international community, the people of Somaliland are not looking for empty words of praise for their democratic achievements. Instead, the people of Somaliland want full diplomatic recognition and economic partnership. And there are signs that an increasing number of countries would be ready to consider this option provided next Monday’s presidential elections are held peacefully, fairly and freely.
Ordinary Somalilanders are confident that they will able to pass this test. They are committed to make the electoral process a successful one. It is hoped that the 3 candidates contesting the country’s top job will refrain from resorting to any tactics that might compromise the integrity of this historic event. What is at stake is not just who will win the election, but also whether Somaliland can convince the world that it deserves to be granted international recognition. Any attempts by any of the 3 contesting political parties to rig the election would be viewed by the public as an act of national treason.
The responsibility for safeguarding the race from possible attempts of fraud does not lie only with the National Electoral Commission. The 3 political parties whose candidates are running for the presidency should feel confident enough to put their faith in the process of fair competition. It would be entirely self-defeating, if some UDUB enthusiasts who think victory could only be won through cheating, had their way. The notion that the elections would be credible only if won by the opposition also doesn’t make sense. People are determined that Somaliland get out of this election safely and with its dignity intact. Politicians must do the same.
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