Today, the local government council of Hargeisa elected Eng. Abdirisaq Mohamed Farah “Wiiwaa” as the new Mayor of Hargeisa and Eng. Aadan Jama Haddi “Mideeye” as the Deputy Mayor of the capital city. Their election comes at an important political moment following the resignation of the former mayor, Abdikarim Ahmed Mooge.
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Mooge legacy
The departure of Abdikarim Ahmed Mooge marks the end of a remarkable period in the history of Hargeisa’s local administration. His resignation was linked to his opposition to any extension of the elected five-year term. Many people viewed his position as a strong stand in support of democratic principles, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
During his time as mayor, Abdikarim Ahmed Mooge became widely respected for his leadership, honesty, and practical development work. Under his administration, Hargeisa witnessed major improvements in sanitation, road construction, urban cleanliness, and public services. The city became cleaner, more organised, and more connected than before. His administration also invested in building schools, health centres, and other important public infrastructure projects that directly improved the daily lives of residents.
One of the biggest achievements of the outgoing mayor was changing the public image of local government. For many years, citizens in Somaliland often criticised public institutions for weak service delivery and lack of transparency. However, Abdikarim Ahmed Mooge earned the trust and respect of many residents because of his clean leadership style, strong communication with the public, and visible development projects across the city.
Many people now describe him as one of the few clean politicians in Somaliland’s modern political history and perhaps the best mayor Hargeisa has ever had. His leadership demonstrated that local governments can deliver real change when there is commitment, honesty, and proper management.
Wiiwaa expectations
At the same time, the election of Eng. Abdirisaq Wiiwaa has created new hope and expectations among the people of Hargeisa. Many residents and political observers consider him one of the most suitable candidates for the position. Unlike many traditional politicians, Eng. Wiiwaa comes from a strong professional and technical background. He is an engineer who has worked in both Saudi Arabia and the United States, gaining valuable international experience in engineering, planning, and modern urban development.
His professional background is expected to help the municipality continue the modernisation and infrastructure projects started by his predecessor. Supporters believe he has the technical knowledge and management skills needed to guide Hargeisa through its next stage of development.
The new mayor is expected to continue the vision of building, cleaning, and greening Hargeisa. Urban development has become one of the most important priorities for the rapidly growing capital city. Hargeisa’s population continues to increase every year, creating pressure on roads, drainage systems, waste management, schools, health facilities, and public transportation.
150 road project
One of the most important projects expected under the leadership of Eng. Wiiwaa is the construction of the well-known “150 Road” in Hargeisa. This road project is considered highly important for improving traffic flow, transportation, trade, and connectivity inside the city. Infrastructure experts believe the project could significantly reduce congestion and support future urban expansion if implemented properly.
Beyond infrastructure, residents will also expect the new administration to address key urban challenges such as informal settlements, environmental management, and city planning. As Hargeisa grows into a larger commercial and political centre, the municipality will need stronger planning systems and long-term urban policies.
Politically, Eng. Abdirisaq Wiiwaa is a member of Waddani Party, the current ruling party in Somaliland. His election may strengthen cooperation between the central government and the Hargeisa municipality, especially regarding funding and implementation of development projects. Strong cooperation between local and national authorities will be essential for delivering large infrastructure projects and improving public services.
Hargeisa Council election
The election of both the mayor and deputy mayor also reflects the growing importance of professional leadership in Somaliland politics. Increasingly, citizens are looking for leaders with education, technical expertise, integrity, and practical experience rather than relying only on traditional political influence.
For the people of Hargeisa, today represents both continuity and transition. The city is saying goodbye to a respected mayor who transformed public confidence in local government, while also welcoming a new leader who carries fresh ideas, international experience, and high public expectations.
The success of the new administration will depend not only on leadership but also on teamwork, transparency, proper planning, and community participation. Hargeisa remains one of the fastest-growing cities in the Horn of Africa, and its future development will play an important role in the economic and political future of Somaliland itself.
As the city enters this new chapter, many residents hope the progress achieved in recent years will continue and even expand further. The challenge ahead is not only to maintain the momentum of development but also to build a modern, clean, organised, and inclusive capital city that can meet the needs of future generations.
Abdikarim Ali Baarjeeh
