Saturday August 23, 2025
Las Anod (HOL) — Lawmakers of Somalia’s newly formed
Northeastern state will elect their parliamentary speakers Saturday in Las
Anod, marking another step toward completing the establishment of the federal
member state.
According to the Electoral Commission, five candidates will
contest the leadership positions — two for the speaker role and three for the
deputy positions.
The Federal Government of Somalia has said the process will
be finalized once a president is elected. President Firdhiye, who reportedly
enjoys federal backing, is campaigning aggressively to retain his seat.
So far, the formation of the new parliament has been smooth,
with no disputes over the recently announced list of MPs. All candidates have
publicly accepted the council’s composition.
However, the new administration faces major hurdles,
including asserting control over Sanaag Bari, an area currently under
Puntland’s authority. Earlier this week, senior Warsangeli clan elders declared
their opposition to the Northeastern administration.
In response, Puntland has deployed additional troops to
Sanaag to counter the new state’s influence.