Somalia Online – Supporters of the newly elected President of Puntland, Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gas took to the streets to celebrate following his victory against incumbent Abdiraham Mohamed Faroole.
Throngs of supporters poured out into the streets after it became apparent Abdiweli won the narrowly contested run-off by one single vote. Jubilant supporters waved flags and chanted patriotic slogans in Bosaso, Qardo, Garowe, Buhodle and Galkaio and other cities across Puntland.
Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gas who was appointed Somalia’s Prime Minister in 2011, became the first former Prime Minister of Somalia to transition into the role of leading a federal province. “Puntland is leading the way on the development of a federal Somalia,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Representative Nicholas Kay after the election result.
“The United Nations support the people of Puntland and all of Somalia as they move together towards peace, reconciliation, democracy and prosperity. I applaud the Speaker and Members of Parliament for their efforts leading to the smooth process of today’s vote. I also appreciate the important role of the traditional leaders. I congratulate all the people of Puntland,” Said Nocholas Kay, reiterating the mature tradition of democratic process in Puntland.
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