In a historic milestone for Somalia’s federalism, Abdiqadir Ahmed Aw-Cali ‘Firdhiye’ has been elected the first President of the newly established Northeastern State Government, where for the first time, MPs had the chance to select the leaders to govern them directly.
The election, held in the city of Las Anod, the capital of the new administration, was a tightly contested race where Firdhiye won majority votes from MPs selected by the local community.
His closest rivals were Abdirisaq Khalif Ahmed and Ambassador Jamaal Mohamed Hassan.
This election marks a turning point for the people of the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions, who for years have been governed by administrations in which they felt little ownership or representation.
Firdhiye’s rise to leadership is a significant development. Before becoming the interim leader of the SSC-Khaatumo administration during the recent conflict against Somaliland forces, he was relatively unknown in Somali national politics.
Born in 1972 in the historic town of Taleex, he holds university degrees in Islamic Studies and Business Management.
His political career has been rooted in grassroots movements advocating for self-governance and autonomy for his people. Unlike many regional politicians, he has not held positions within the administrations of neighboring Puntland or Somaliland, setting him apart as an independent figure.
What contributed to Firdhiye’s electoral success?
He has maintained a clean political record, free from scandals or major controversies, which is uncommon in the region’s often fractious political environment. His strong relationship with the Federal Government in Mogadishu has earned him significant political and financial support.
Additionally, his role during the SSC uprising, where his community expelled Somaliland region forces from their land, gave him substantial local legitimacy and the status of a hero among his supporters. Under his interim leadership, the SSC administration transitioned from a protest movement into a functioning government by drafting a constitution, enacting governance laws, and establishing key institutions.
Firdhiye also recently joined the leadership of the JSP – Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP), led by PrHassan Sheikh Mohamud. This move further increased his chances as it offered him an opportunity for the government to support his election campaign.
Many local people in Lasanod believe that the Federal Government will soon launch an election campaign here on October 30.
Firdhiye’s support was visible as he received congratulations from Federal Government leaders, including the President, Prime Minister, various opposition such as former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, Deputy Chairman of the Salvation Forum Abdi Farah Shirdoon, extended their congratulations.
Galmudug President Ahmed Kariye Qorqor also was the very first FMS leader to send his congratulations.
Members of the opposition coalition and some federal member states, particularly Jubaland and Puntland, which are on the same side in terms of tribal power-sharing, have yet to comment on this election.
The Federal Government has achieved another victory in state-building. It has established a separate, pro-unity administration in part of the self-proclaimed state of Somaliland, this emerging as a setback Somaliland’s secessionist campaign.
Furthermore, Hassan Sheikh has gained another administration that supports his policies. This victory means that they can continue with the hybrid model election efforts they are currently pursuing in the coming months.
What next for Firdhiye?
Firdhiye faces significant challenges in leading the Northeastern State.
The region is newly formed and politically fragile, requiring the president to act as a unifying figure who avoids concentrating power in his own hands. There are signs that some political supporters and traditional leaders who initially backed him have since distanced themselves, raising concerns about internal divisions.
Furthermore, the neighboring administrations of Puntland and Somaliland had previously opposed the new government’s formation, terming it as posing diplomatic and security risks.
However, successfully transforming an interim administration into a stable, functioning regional government will require skilled leadership, coalition-building, and a commitment to peace and development.
Firdhiye’s presidency represents a rare opportunity to build lasting governance in a part of Somalia that has long struggled with marginalization and conflict. Backed by local support and federal allies, he now faces the complex task of consolidating his administration, delivering services to the population, and establishing the Northeastern State as a credible actor within Somalia’s federal system.
The coming months of this new administration, will be a crucial test of his leadership and vision.