Hargeysa, Somaliland, November 14, 2009 (SL Times) –
Tensions over the Somaliland presidential election has given rise to
fears that the republic of Somaliland could become a failed state like
its neighbor Somalia.
Somaliland has been hailed as a beacon of stability in the troubled Horn
of Africa region since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991.
But Al Jazeera's Mohamed Adow, reports that some experts now believe the
self-declared republic is at crisis point, as an election row deepens.
The current tension in Somaliland centers on the presidential election,
which was due to have been held on September 27.
The polls have been postponed indefinitely due to serious differences
between the political parties since 2008.
This uncertainty has led to increased concern about Somaliland in the
international community, and a flare-up of political animosity within
the territory.
Recent violence, particularly in the capital Hargeysa, has shown that
the crisis in Somaliland has changed from being political to one of
security and stability.
Fears over the crisis have even led one senior political figure to warn
that it could become another failed state, like neighboring Somalia.
Somaliland is a former British protectorate in north western Somalia.
In 1960, it gained its independence and united with what was then
Italian Somaliland to form the Somalia republic.
Limited democracy
In 1991, it declared independence after Mohamed Siyad Barre, the Somali
military leader, was overthrown.
Somaliland has a population of 3.5 million people, according to
government estimates, and is a relatively stable democracy even though
it has not been internationally recognized.
This is partly because it has developed a unique hybrid system of
government.
The row over elections - largely seen as a test for this fledgling
nation - threatens to divide it.
Afyare Elmi, a Somali political analyst, told Al Jazeera: "The concerns
are real. The opposition fears the government is not interested in
holding this election and there is a lot at stake. Unless these
elections take place, they might have some problems.
"However, if history tells us anything, the Somaliland leadership has
shown that at least they could address with traditional leadership the
issues when they arise."
The hope now rests with a recently appointed electoral commission,
entrusted with the task of organizing elections, a step seen as vital to
Somaliland's quest for international recognition.
Source: Al Jazeera and agencies, November 12, 2009
