This morning, the election for the speaker and deputy speaker of the Northeastern Somali regional parliament is underway in Lascaanod.
The Electoral Commission said that five candidates have filed for the position, two of whom are running for the speaker position, while three others are running for the deputy seats.
This election is being closely watched, as it has a major impact on the presidential race for the Northeastern Somali regional state.
The process of establishing the Northeastern regional state is nearing completion, with the Federal Government of Somalia stating that the requirements for establishing this regional state will be completed when a president is officially elected, which will remove the interim status.
President Firdhiye, who is said to have the support of the Federal Government, is campaigning vigorously to retain his position, believing that there is no one more deserving to hold office at this time.
Since the announcement of the list of the new parliament, there has been no controversy or disagreement, and all candidates have welcomed the new council equally.
The new administration faces serious challenges, including how to take control of Sanaag Bari, which is now fully under Puntland control.
A few days ago, the highest traditional leaders of the Warsangeli clan made it clear that they were opposed to the administration in the North-East.
Meanwhile, Puntland has deployed large numbers of troops to the Sanaag region to counter the activities of the new administration in the Northeast.
