Somaliland electoral crisis creates sequencing dilemma

Significance

This came after the electoral commission postponed the presidential election and the Gurti (parliament’s upper house, consisting of traditional elders) extended Muse Bihi's term by two years.

Impacts

• The stakes are high, as the election winner could control lucrative economic and political opportunities currently in development.
• Foreign investor confidence may suffer if political instability worsens.
• Jihadist group al-Shabaab may portray Somaliland elites as prioritising power over democratic ideals in a bid to recruit support.