Former Somali Finance Minister Abdirahman Duale Bayle and several other prominent politicians have officially joined Somaliland’s opposition party, Waddani, just weeks before the November elections.
Bayle, who recently distanced himself from his previous stance advocating for ‘Greater Somalia,’ returned to Somaliland after years of service in the federal government.
“We have decided to join this party and work with them. We are urging the people of Somaliland to vote for this party. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro is the only person who can save this country,” said Bayle.
Bayle and his colleagues emphasized that Waddani offers the best path for Somaliland’s future, particularly in addressing the concerns of regions like Awdal. They praised the party’s readiness to bring about meaningful change, describing Somaliland as a “rising sun” that requires strong leadership.
In recent months, Waddani has garnered increasing support from various political figures, positioning itself as the largest opposition party. The party is focused on winning the presidency in the upcoming elections.
Last week, two former deputy ministers, Mohamud Elmi Yusuf, former Deputy Minister of Education, and Nasir Aydid Mohamed, former Deputy Minister of Fisheries, resigned from their posts within the ruling Kulmiye Party and joined Waddani. They cited the need for change and voiced their support for Irro’s leadership as the best way forward for Somaliland.
