Somaliland: Muse Bihi Abdi ready to take up the challenge of the presidency between hopes and skepticisms

Somaliland, the self-proclaimed entity nestled in the Horn of Africa, has just sworn in its new president, Muse Bihi Abdi. A historic turning point in the heart of a region marked by political tensions, internal conflicts, and dreams of independence. At a time when economic and security challenges are piling up, Bihi appears as the savior or, for some, the new shepherd of the sheep, at the head of this election that leaves no one indifferent.

A heavy oath of promises

At the ceremony, which took place in the capital Hargeisa, flowery speeches followed one another. Muse Bihi’s supporters reveled in a brilliant vocabulary, enunciating promises of prosperity and development. True, he promised economic transformation and infrastructure strengthening. But can we really believe that miracles can happen under a sky already clouded by corruption and dysfunction? The legacy of his predecessor weighs heavily: promises that have slipped away like a balloon.

Popular joy tinged with bitterness

The streets of Hargeisa have celebrated this new presidency, but in the background, murmurs of skepticism can be heard. Somalis, with a bitter look, know that the road will be strewn with pitfalls. Hopes for peace and prosperity are colliding with the wall of a brutal reality where tribal conflicts, the question of international recognition, and the fight against piracy persist. The contrast is striking between popular jubilation and fears of a growing gap between promises and realities. Muse Bihi will have to, from the first days, change the discourse of utopia into concrete actions.

An eyeliner on the past

It would be foolish to bow to a new head of state without examining his past. Before ascending the throne, Bihi held various political positions, but some of his choices were marred by controversy. Many observers wonder: Does this man really have the capacity to shake up the status quo? The people’s trust is volatile, and any misstep could be exploited by the opposition. With such scrutiny, Bihi is in a fragile position, ready to walk on eggshells as he tries to chart a path through the political wrangling that has bedeviled Somaliland.

As Muse Bihi Abdi treads the bumpy path to the presidency, the people of Somaliland watch, almost breathless, hoping that the promises are not just empty words, but the beginning of a new chapter. Will the new era he promises be one of light or shadows? Time will tell, but for now, the oath is made. It is up to him!