Opinion

As Somaliland prepares for its 4th presidential election—a significant milestone—an old threat lurks: clan-based politics. Politicians are marshalling the clan, but it poses long-term threats to Somaliland’s cohesion and its institutions.

Somaliland has long valued its rare democratic ideals of wada-tashi iyo isu-tanaasul (consensus and compromise), but clan divisions and election delays now threaten this fragile progress.

Sahle-Work Zewde made history as Ethiopia’s first female president. Her legacy, however, will be defined by her selective outrage towards the violence of the Abiy era.

A second Bihi presidency poses a threat to democracy in Somaliland. The public must test his commitment to step down if he loses—and send him into retirement.

The world is slowly opening its eyes to how Paul Kagame’s regime abuses human rights, suppresses dissent, and exploits neighboring countries.

The footage of Sinwar’s last stand against Israel transformed him from a man into a potent symbol.

The economic boom in Kenya’s major urban areas has not extended to the northern parts of the country, which remain neglected backwaters.

   The plastic bag ban, intended to safeguard the environmental health of Somali cities, already appears to be stillborn policy.

Politicians and public figures in Somaliland have turned to name-calling and populist rhetoric. This diverts attention and energy away from the more serious discussions that need to take place about the country’s future.