Authorities in Islamabad on Friday enacted stringent security measures, including road blockades, suspension of cell services, and school closures, to prevent supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan from marching on the capital. The rally, called by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, was planned to protest alleged electoral fraud and controversial constitutional amendments proposed by the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Security forces, bolstered by paramilitary units, sealed off major entry points into Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi, home to Pakistan’s military headquarters. The government also banned public gatherings, citing the need for heightened security ahead of diplomatic meetings, including an upcoming visit by Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang.

Khan, incarcerated since August on contentious corruption charges, urged his supporters to gather at D-Chowk, a central square near parliament, to peacefully challenge what he describes as a rigged electoral process and an illegitimate government. His arrest has only deepened the rift between Khan’s populist movement and the military-backed government, which has faced mounting criticism for its crackdown on dissent.

On the ground, tensions flared as police arrested dozens of PTI activists, including two of Khan’s sisters, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khanum, and used tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Thousands of supporters from PTI-governed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, led by the provincial chief minister, marched toward the capital despite these efforts to block their access.

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, condemned the government’s response. The watchdog decried the shutdown of communication networks and roadblocks, calling them an infringement on the public’s right to peaceful assembly and free expression. Amnesty urged Pakistan to honor its international obligations and refrain from employing “unlawful force” against the demonstrators.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi defended the heavy-handed measures, emphasizing the need to maintain order ahead of crucial diplomatic engagements, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit scheduled for mid-October. He warned PTI against proceeding with the protest, stating, “Anyone caught will not be shown any leniency.”

The political turmoil has been exacerbated by Khan’s ousting in 2022 through a parliamentary no-confidence vote, which he claims was orchestrated by the military—an assertion Sharif and the military deny. Despite being under constant pressure, Khan’s PTI won the largest share of seats in February’s general election but fell short of securing a parliamentary majority, allowing the ruling coalition to remain in power. Khan’s enduring popularity has kept him at the center of Pakistan’s volatile political landscape, even as the government continues to tighten its grip on opposition activities.

The ongoing confrontation underscores the deepening fissures within Pakistan’s democracy, where the military’s influence and a polarized political environment complicate prospects for stability. As both sides dig in, the question remains whether this political impasse can be resolved through dialogue—or if the nation will see further unrest.

Somaliland’s Political Landscape: As Election Day Approaches, a Crucial Communication Gap Emerges

As Somaliland gears up for an unprecedented presidential election on November 13, 2024, the ruling Kulmiye party faces intensified scrutiny regarding its communication of governmental achievements over the past seven years. Critics, including influential journalist Abdishakur Haybe, editor of Arabsiyo News, assert that Kulmiye’s failure to effectively convey its successes under President Muse Bihi’s leadership could jeopardize the party’s chances at the polls.

In a recent interview on KOW TV, Haybe highlighted the paradox of Kulmiye’s political strategy: “While President Bihi’s administration boasts accomplishments that surpass many of his predecessors, their inability to present these achievements to the electorate in a compelling manner could be detrimental.” His remarks amplify a growing concern that without a robust presentation of their record, both the party and its supporters may struggle to mobilize voters.

The upcoming election is distinguished not only by the traditional rivalry among the established parties—Kulmiye, Ucid, and Waddani—but also by a concurrent election featuring ten associations that are vying to emerge as formal political parties in Somaliland. As the electorate is confronted with this dual scenario, the challenges of communication and engagement become even more pronounced. These tensions are echoed in a social media landscape rife with critiques and content that often obfuscates the substantive issues at hand.

Haybe remarked on the current state of political discourse within Somaliland, noting, “The election issues we are facing today are not new; however, it is alarming that the agendas of Kulmiye and Waddani fail to inspire or inform voters.” He emphasized that substantive political engagement is sorely lacking, with both parties seemingly preoccupied with critique rather than offering clear platforms. “Voters are left wanting,” he added, “as the government should articulate its accomplishments while the opposition should delineate why voters should lend their support.”

He pointed to an emerging trend—tribal affiliations are rediscovering significance in electoral mobilization, overshadowing important policy discussions. “The songs and critiques that have become the backbone of opposition campaigns, fueled by various Somaliland artists, not only distract from crucial political issues but also deepen society’s divisions in these fraught times,” Haybe warned. As the senior journalist advocates for an informed electorate, he underscores the need for responsible political dialogue.

Addressing the impact of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Ethiopia, Haybe contended that while this agreement represents a pivotal moment for Somaliland, it cannot be the sole focal point for the Kulmiye party’s campaign. “This agreement, if executed properly, will indeed serve as a significant victory for the people of Somaliland,” he stated. However, he stressed the importance of a multifaceted strategy that highlights a broader range of government efforts. “The administration must engage with more educated voices to develop substantial political strategies that resonate with the electorate,” he emphasized.

With the election date looming, Haybe expressed concern over the apparent lack of unified campaigning within the Kulmiye party. “Where is the rest of the party and the government in this effort?” he asked rhetorically, illustrating a notable absence of collective action that could potentially rally voter support.

Reflecting on President Muse Bihi’s tenure, Haybe acknowledged the significant achievements made, yet he pointed out a critical flaw: “What good are these accomplishments if they remain obscured from public view?” He echoed the sentiment that effective communication is paramount. If the government fails to showcase its successes and articulate a coherent vision for the future in the days leading up to the election, the consequences could swing the electoral balance in favor of Waddani or other opposition forces.

With only days until the election, the urgency for Kulmiye to refine its messaging grows ever more critical. As Haybe succinctly put it, “If they can effectively present their achievements and plans, there’s little doubt they could see a large margin of victory. However, neglecting this task will only serve to empower the opposition and diminish Bihi’s legacy.” In a race as narrow as this, the next few days will be decisive, and the ability to connect with the electorate will be key to the future of Somaliland’s political landscape.

As Mozambique prepares for its presidential election, all eyes are on Daniel Chapo, the ruling party’s candidate and the presumptive victor. Chapo, a former high school teacher now stepping into the political limelight, faces an immense challenge: securing the country’s vast liquefied natural gas (LNG) fields in northern Cabo Delgado, a region long plagued by Islamist insurgency. Analysts believe his strategy will continue to rely heavily on Rwandan military forces and European financial support to restore stability and revive Mozambique’s ambitions of becoming a major player in the global gas market.

Chapo’s campaign slogan, “Let’s get to work,” encapsulates his mission to kickstart the two massive LNG projects, currently on hold due to insecurity. These projects, backed by energy giants TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil, represent an estimated $20 billion in potential investments that could transform Mozambique into a significant gas exporter. However, achieving this goal is not just a matter of economic ambition; it requires a delicate balancing act between military support, political stability, and international cooperation.

The Rwandan Factor: A Crucial Alliance

Since 2021, Rwandan military forces, including special units, have played an essential role in stabilizing the volatile Cabo Delgado region. Current President Felipe Nyusi first brought in the Rwandans after Mozambique’s own troops struggled to contain the insurgents. Their mission: protect strategic areas, including the Afungi site, where TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil plan to build the LNG facilities. According to Tertius Jacobs, lead analyst for Mozambique at the risk consultancy Focus Group, the Rwandan forces are “undeniably competent” and represent Mozambique’s best option to safeguard its vital energy infrastructure.

As a signal of continuity, Nyusi introduced Chapo to Rwandan President Paul Kagame in June, underscoring that the reliance on Kigali’s military assistance will likely persist. The Rwandan forces have already assumed greater responsibilities, particularly after regional troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) withdrew earlier this year.

“Rwanda will remain key,” said Robert Besseling, CEO of Pangea-Risk, a consultancy specializing in African security. “They have thousands of troops there to protect the LNG sites.”

Challenges on the Horizon: Insurgency and Investment Delays

The security situation in Cabo Delgado remains precarious. Earlier this year, suspected Islamist militants ambushed Mozambican soldiers in one of the deadliest attacks since 2021, claiming the lives of more than 20 soldiers and displacing tens of thousands of civilians. Such incidents have disrupted not only the lives of the local population but also Mozambique’s energy aspirations.

TotalEnergies halted its $20 billion project in 2021, citing security concerns, and ExxonMobil has similarly delayed its neighboring venture. Despite these setbacks, there is cautious optimism. TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne has suggested that operations could resume if the security situation continues to improve by year’s end. However, funding for these projects remains a concern, with ExxonMobil’s final investment decision expected by late 2025.

European Support and Regional Dynamics

In addition to military aid from Rwanda, Mozambique has also received significant backing from the European Union. The EU has funded efforts to bolster security in Cabo Delgado and is currently mulling further support to help quell the insurgency. A spokesperson for the EU emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “The fight against terrorism in Cabo Delgado is a common fight.”

Meanwhile, as Rwandan forces take on more responsibility in securing the region, reports have surfaced of potential plans for a new Rwandan military base in Quissanga district. Such a move would not only enhance security in the region but also bolster Mozambique’s efforts to hold secure elections amidst ongoing unrest.

Mozambique’s Future: Energy and Stability

Daniel Chapo’s likely election victory marks the continuation of an era where the strategic alliance between Mozambique and Rwanda will shape the future of the country’s energy sector. For Mozambique, securing its LNG projects is not just a question of economic growth but one of national stability and international relevance. Should Chapo succeed in stabilizing Cabo Delgado and reviving the stalled gas projects, Mozambique could finally realize its ambitions of becoming a key player in the global energy market.

However, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The Islamist insurgency remains a potent threat, and while Rwanda’s military support is invaluable, it is unlikely to be a permanent solution. Long-term peace and stability in Mozambique will require not only military prowess but also sustained international cooperation, regional diplomacy, and a commitment to addressing the underlying grievances that fuel the conflict.

As Mozambique stands on the brink of a new chapter, Chapo’s ability to navigate these complexities will define his presidency—and the country’s future.

Jen Easterly affirms election system’s strength, dismisses fears of foreign interference while warning of misinformation’s corrosive effects.

As the countdown to Election Day intensifies, Americans are faced with a barrage of disinformation, and lingering doubts about the security of their votes. But Jen Easterly, director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), is offering a clear and forceful message: U.S. election systems are stronger than ever, and no foreign adversary can alter the outcome.

In a recent interview, Easterly underscored the remarkable progress state and local election officials have made in bolstering election security. She expressed unshakeable confidence in the resilience of the nation’s voting infrastructure, emphasizing that no matter the efforts of hostile nations like Russia or Iran, the integrity of the upcoming election is not at risk.

“Malicious actors, even if they tried, could not have an impact at scale such that there would be a material effect on the outcome of the election,” Easterly told the Associated Press.

Her remarks come against the backdrop of escalating warnings from intelligence officials, who have flagged increasing attempts by foreign adversaries to sow discord and undermine trust in U.S. elections through disinformation campaigns. Despite these efforts, Easterly maintains that the physical integrity of the election systems is secure.

A Strong Defense Against Foreign Threats

The significance of Easterly’s reassurances cannot be overstated. The 2024 election is being held in a climate of heightened political tensions, with millions of Americans harboring skepticism over the fairness of the process—a legacy of former President Donald Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election and his continued assertions of widespread fraud. As early voting begins and mail ballots are distributed, Easterly’s agency is tasked with overseeing one of the most scrutinized elections in U.S. history.

Foreign adversaries like Russia and Iran have long attempted to meddle in U.S. elections, often through sophisticated cyber campaigns and social media disinformation. In recent months, the Biden administration has taken an aggressive stance, seizing Kremlin-run fake websites and charging Russian and Iranian operatives involved in election interference schemes. Despite these external threats, Easterly remains firm in her assertion that the technological and procedural safeguards put in place by election officials will hold.

“There could be a ransomware attack, a distributed denial of service attack,” Easterly noted. “But they will not impact the ability of votes being cast or those votes being counted.”

Easterly’s confidence is bolstered by tangible improvements in election security. Voting jurisdictions now overwhelmingly rely on paper ballots—over 97%—allowing for verifiable records of votes cast. This paper trail serves as a crucial bulwark against attempts to manipulate the digital infrastructure of the election.

A New Battlefront: Disinformation and Threats to Election Workers

While the physical security of the election infrastructure is robust, the fight against disinformation remains a significant challenge. Foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, and Iran, have shown a vested interest in manipulating public perception through fake news sites and social media profiles aimed at deepening partisan divides. Intelligence agencies and technology companies continue to track these actors, but the influence of disinformation remains difficult to quantify.

A particularly alarming consequence of misinformation has been an uptick in threats against election officials and their families. Easterly described this trend as “corrosive to democracy” and urged Americans to remember that election officials are community members dedicated to ensuring a fair process, not faceless bureaucrats.

“Those election officials… they are doing this because they believe in the process of democracy,” she said, acknowledging the immense pressure they face amid baseless accusations of fraud.

The stakes are especially high in regions already ravaged by natural disasters. In states like Florida and Louisiana, devastated by Hurricane Helene, election officials are displaying what Easterly called “enormous and admirable resilience” to ensure that voters can still cast their ballots.

Misinformation and the Role of Social Media

Misinformation surrounding elections has also raised questions about CISA’s relationship with social media platforms. Some critics, including high-profile politicians, have accused the federal government of exerting undue influence over online content. Easterly firmly rejected these claims, asserting that CISA neither monitors nor censors social media.

“CISA does not censor, has never censored,” she said, addressing accusations that have surfaced in the political discourse. “Allegations against CISA are riddled with factual inaccuracies.”

Her comments come after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against Republican-led states that had sued the federal government, accusing it of pressuring social media companies to alter content. Easterly reiterated that CISA’s role is to promote accurate information, not to regulate speech.

As Election Day draws near, Easterly urged Americans to trust the system while encouraging those who still have doubts to engage directly by volunteering at polling stations or contacting local election offices. She also issued a reminder that results might not be immediate, urging patience as officials work through the meticulous process of counting votes.

Foreign adversaries, she warned, may try to capitalize on the post-election period, using any delays to spread misinformation about the validity of the results. Easterly implored Americans to focus on protecting the foundation of their democracy—free, fair, and secure elections.

“We need to come together as Americans to protect and preserve what is most precious,” she said, signaling the importance of unity in the face of both internal and external threats.

As the nation heads to the polls, Easterly’s message is clear: while challenges persist, the structural integrity of U.S. elections remains intact, fortified by layers of security, transparency, and the dedication of election workers across the country. In an era of uncertainty, this resilience may be democracy’s strongest defense.

Confidential documents obtained by Arabsiyo News Network have exposed the covert sale of Somaliland’s airspace to Somalia. These sensitive files, some of which have never been seen before, shed light on a deal long surrounded by doubt and denial. The documents were acquired by the Oslo-based news platform WARYATV and are expected to spark widespread controversy just weeks before Somaliland’s upcoming election.

The revelations, set to be aired by Arabsiyo in mid-October, are poised to raise serious questions about Somaliland’s sovereignty and its relationship with Somalia. The investigation traces how the rights to control Somaliland’s airspace were allegedly transferred to the Somali government, despite the ongoing dispute over Somaliland’s quest for independence. The issue, which has been the subject of speculation for years, now comes to light with concrete evidence of how the transaction unfolded.

A Political Bombshell Ahead of Elections

The timing of the documentary’s release—just three weeks before Somaliland’s elections—is expected to impact the political climate, as voters digest the implications of this long-hidden arrangement. Arabsiyo News Network had previously hinted at the existence of such documents in July 2024, but the Ministry of Information dismissed the claims at the time. Now, with new evidence set to be made public, there are concerns that the revelations could shift voter sentiment and destabilize the political arena.

The investigation has unearthed not only the details of the sale but also the identities of key players involved. The files reportedly name former Somaliland Minister of Aviation Mohamud Haashi, now the chairman of the KAAH association, as a central figure in the transaction. Alongside him are former Deputy Minister of Aviation Saeed Abdi Mohamed, former Director of Aviation Saeed Mahadi Ileeyee, and other influential officials.

The documents suggest that these individuals, who held positions of power within Somaliland, secretly colluded with Somali officials, receiving payments from Mogadishu over several years. Payments were allegedly funneled through banks in Somaliland, with meetings held in locations including Turkey, Kenya, Mogadishu, and Hargeisa. These revelations, if proven accurate, could have far-reaching consequences for Somaliland’s political elite.

Implications for Somaliland’s Sovereignty

The leaked files also reveal that the agreement, which has remained concealed from the public eye, has deepened the divide between Somaliland and Somalia. Somaliland declared its 1960 independence back from Somalia in 1991, has sought international recognition as a separate state but remains unrecognized by the United Nations. Control of its airspace has been a symbol of its autonomous governance, making the alleged sale particularly contentious.

In addition to outlining the sale, the documents highlight the grim consequences faced by young Somalilanders working in the Somali aviation industry. The files include testimonies alleging that employees from Somaliland have faced persecution and harsh treatment under Somali government oversight. These accusations add another layer of tension to an already fraught situation.

The Fallout

As waryatv.com continues to analyze the cache of documents, the political implications are beginning to emerge. The leak implicates prominent Somaliland politicians, whose involvement with Somali authorities raises questions about loyalty and corruption. For many Somalilanders, the idea that their airspace—their most visible symbol of autonomy—was secretly sold to Somalia is likely to fuel anger and distrust in the upcoming election on 13 of November 2024.

The former Minister of Aviation, Mohamud Haashi, who has consistently denied any involvement in the airspace deal, is now at the center of the storm. With these revelations, the electorate will likely demand answers from political figures who have, until now, escaped scrutiny over this issue.

As Somaliland approaches its elections, the release of these documents could become a turning point. The timing suggests a deliberate effort to influence the political landscape, and the coming days will reveal how voters and political actors respond to this dramatic unveiling.

A Documentary That Could Change Everything

Arabsiyo has promised that its full documentary, scheduled for release on October 15, 2024, will detail the extent of the secret dealings and include previously unseen footage and interviews. This exposé could reshape how Somaliland’s electorate views its leadership and its aspirations for independence. Analysts are already speculating about how the revelations will affect the election, with some predicting significant shifts in public sentiment.

As the investigation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Somaliland’s political future has been thrust into uncertainty, with voters now confronting the reality of a secret that could change everything.

Kamala Harris just made her boldest move yet. With the November election looming, the Vice President touched down in Arizona, a place where the battle over immigration is not just political—it’s personal. The stakes? Enormous. This was no ordinary trip to the border. It was a do-or-die moment for Harris, as she faces relentless fire from Donald Trump and his Republican army, who have turned immigration into their ultimate weapon.

Harris, standing before the rusting remains of an Obama-era border wall, wasn’t just there to talk policy. She was there to prove a point. Drenched in Arizona’s brutal heat, where temperatures soared near 100 degrees, she walked the fence line with Border Patrol leaders, projecting an image of toughness, of readiness to take on the growing migration crisis head-on. But let’s be real—it wasn’t just the border patrol that Harris was confronting. It was Donald Trump, the man who has owned this issue for years and shows no signs of backing down.

“They’ve got a tough job, and they need support,” Harris said, sounding almost like a general rallying her troops. She knew this was about more than just a policy discussion. With Trump breathing down her neck, she had to make it clear that the Biden administration was stepping up its game. And she did just that, signaling that stricter asylum rules were on the horizon, pushing the administration’s stance further than Biden himself. A move that screams: “I’m in this to win.”

This shift is a direct response to the constant barrage of attacks from Trump. He’s hammered Harris on this issue, painting her as the face of an immigration policy that’s let millions pour across the border. Never one to miss an opportunity, Trump pounced before she even arrived, accusing her of having “blood on her hands” for crimes allegedly committed by migrants. It’s brutal, it’s aggressive—and it’s vintage Trump.

But Harris isn’t playing defense. She’s fighting back. Her record as California’s Attorney General—where she went after drug cartels and smuggling gangs—is front and center in her narrative. “I prosecuted them in case after case, and I won,” she reminded voters. A message that shouts: I’m no stranger to this fight, and I’m not backing down now.

The problem? Optics. Trump has owned the media spectacle around the border, staging his fiery speeches in front of half-built walls and piles of steel beams, pushing the image of a country under siege. And while Harris talks about addressing the “root causes” of migration from Central America, Trump’s portrayal of an “invasion” of migrants is winning the emotional war with voters.

Douglas, Arizona—where Harris made her stand—is ground zero for this battle. This small border town, overwhelmingly Democratic but located in a Republican stronghold, is a perfect metaphor for the political storm swirling around immigration. Locals here are torn—some demand stricter controls, others just want smoother legal crossings. But one thing is certain: this is a frontline, and Harris is walking right into the fray.

Meanwhile, Trump’s campaign has already unleashed a new wave of attacks. Ads slamming Harris as a failed “border czar” flood the airwaves, painting her as weak and ineffective—never mind the fact that Harris never held that position. The truth is irrelevant in this battle of perceptions, and Harris knows it.

As the clock ticks down to Election Day, Harris’ visit to the border could be a defining moment in her campaign. But will it be enough? She’s up against a political machine that has weaponized the immigration issue to devastating effect. The fight is far from over, and with Trump showing no signs of letting up, Harris knows she’s in for a brutal battle.

This isn’t just about policy anymore—it’s about survival. The gloves are off, and the real fight for the White House is just beginning.

As Somaliland heads into its most critical election in years, alliances fracture, leaders clash, and the nation’s destiny hangs in the balance. 

As the November 13, 2024 election looms, Somaliland stands at a political crossroads that could redefine its future. The stakes are sky-high, the alliances shaky, and the rhetoric fiery. What happens in the coming weeks will either cement Somaliland’s democratic aspirations or plunge it into deeper political fragmentation. At the heart of this drama is the fragile alliance between the Waddani Party and KAAH, two forces that have united to challenge the ruling Kulmiye party—but how long will their union hold?

The air in Erigabo crackled with anticipation as Mahamud Haashi, the fiery chairman of KAAH, delivered a blistering attack on the ruling Kulmiye party. Speaking to an eager crowd in Somaliland’s Sanag region, Haashi didn’t mince words. “Kulmiye is a party of greed and stagnation,” he declared, his voice rising with emotion. “It’s time for change, and the people of Somaliland are thirsting for it.”

With these proclamations, Haashi launched his party’s campaign with the kind of drama that hooks the attention of the nation. He spoke passionately about the coalition between KAAH and Waddani, led by the presidential hopeful Abdirahman Irro. The alliance, forged in the heat of political rivalry, is positioned as a vehicle for change. But behind the grand speeches and public shows of unity, cracks are already starting to show.

The Waddani and KAAH parties may have banded together with a shared goal of dethroning Kulmiye, but unity is far from guaranteed. Haashi’s visit to Sanag highlighted the uneasy tension within the alliance. As he rallied support for Waddani’s candidate, his pointed attacks on Kulmiye revealed a deeper frustration. “We carry the keys to peace, unity, and change,” Haashi told the crowd, contrasting his message with the divisive approach he claims the sitting president, Muse Bihi, has taken. “Bihi’s tour of the eastern regions carries nothing but the keys to war, division, and resistance to progress,” he exclaimed.

But while Haashi was busy igniting passion in Sanag, Waddani’s chairman, Hirsi Haaji Ali, was delivering a very different message in another part of the country. In a bitter twist, Hirsi urged voters to cast their ballots solely for Waddani, not KAAH, revealing a rift within the coalition that could spell disaster for both parties. Hirsi’s strained remarks showed the desperation beneath Waddani’s campaign. Can this alliance, so essential to their hopes of victory, hold long enough to make an impact?

The battle for Somaliland’s future isn’t just about rhetoric—it’s about numbers. And the numbers in Sanag are significant. With 9.8% of voters and 15% of the parliamentary seats, Sanag is a key battleground that could tilt the election in favor of any party that secures its support. That’s why Waddani and KAAH are pouring resources into the region, hoping to wrestle control away from the entrenched power of Kulmiye.

But the fight for votes doesn’t stop in Sanag. Awdal, with 15% of voters and a crucial 15.85% of seats, and Togdheer, home to 19% of the electorate, are equally vital. It’s a numbers game, and every region, every vote counts. Yet as Waddani and KAAH bicker over leadership and messaging, Kulmiye remains a looming force, ready to capitalize on their division.

Amid the noise and the chaos, the ruling party Kulmiye, led by President Muse Bihi, remains ominously calm. Despite Haashi’s verbal assaults and Hirsi’s discontent, Kulmiye’s position is far from weak. In fact, their dominance might be growing stronger with each passing day, thanks to the discord among their rivals.

Let’s not forget: Kulmiye won the 2017 election, and Bihi remains a seasoned politician with deep connections across Somaliland. While Waddani and KAAH squabble over strategy, Kulmiye is methodically shoring up its support base, particularly in regions like Togdheer and Awdal, where voter turnout could prove decisive.

This is the quiet, calculated strength of a party that has survived and thrived in Somaliland’s turbulent political landscape. While Waddani and KAAH may have fired the first shots, Kulmiye is playing the long game, and they’ve seen alliances like this crumble before. History suggests they may emerge victorious once again.

The Waddani-KAAH coalition is, in many ways, a marriage of convenience. Both parties know they cannot defeat Kulmiye alone, but can they do it together? The truth is, this alliance feels less like a partnership of equals and more like a desperate gamble to scrape together votes in key regions like Sanag and Awdal. The bold promises of unity may be nothing more than election-season rhetoric designed to dazzle, rather than deliver.

Even now, political insiders are questioning the longevity of this coalition. Will KAAH, a relatively new player in the political scene, be sacrificed if the alliance doesn’t yield results in the initial rounds of voting? Will Waddani, in its bid for power, throw its partner under the bus to save itself? The answers are as murky as Somaliland’s political future.

Here’s where it gets interesting: while Waddani and KAAH have shown their hand early, Kulmiye has been quietly recalibrating its strategy. The ruling party has seen alliances like this before—alliances that start strong but fizzle out as election day draws nearer. By revealing their plans too soon, Waddani and KAAH may have given Kulmiye the advantage. There are still weeks left before voters head to the polls, and in politics, timing is everything.

What if this coalition is just an unrealistic election promise, a fleeting attempt to sway voters in Sanag? What if, when the dust settles, one of these parties—likely KAAH—fails to survive the early rounds of voting? These are questions that will haunt voters and political analysts alike as election day approaches.

The election on November 13, 2024, is more than a contest for political power—it’s a battle for the soul of Somaliland. Will the country continue under Kulmiye’s rule, or is the public truly ready for the change that Waddani and KAAH promise? The stakes couldn’t be higher. The next few weeks will be filled with rallies, speeches, and, undoubtedly, more drama. But behind the spectacle lies a deeper question: can Somaliland’s political system withstand the pressure of this election, or will the cracks widen into fissures too deep to repair?

One thing is certain: this election will be a turning point in Somaliland’s history. And as voters prepare to cast their ballots, the entire nation will be watching, waiting, and wondering what comes next.

Tunisian presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel was sentenced to six months in prison on charges of falsifying documents, his lawyer revealed Wednesday.

This sentence marks the second prison term imposed on Zammel within a week, following a 20-month sentence last week over allegations of falsifying popular endorsements. The swift legal actions against Zammel, just days before the election, have intensified fears among opposition and civil society groups that the vote may be rigged to maintain President Kais Saied’s grip on power.

The sentencing of Zammel is being viewed by his supporters and attorney as politically motivated. “It is another unjust ruling and a farce that clearly aims to weaken him in the election race, but we will defend his right to the last minute,” said Zammel’s attorney, Abdessattar Massoudi, in a statement to Reuters.

Zammel, one of only three candidates in the race, is now facing serious hurdles in his bid for the presidency. His two main competitors are the incumbent President Kais Saied and Zouhair Magzhaoui. The election, set for October 6, has already been marred by controversy following the disqualification of three other prominent candidates by an electoral commission appointed by Saied, raising further doubts about the fairness of the process.

Tunisia’s political climate has grown increasingly fraught as the election approaches, with opposition parties, civil society organizations, and international observers expressing concerns about Saied’s consolidating power. Since he seized executive control in a 2021 power grab, Saied has drawn widespread criticism for undermining Tunisia’s nascent democracy, which emerged from the 2011 Arab Spring. The arrest and sentencing of opposition figures like Zammel have exacerbated fears of authoritarian regression in the country.

The electoral commission’s recent disqualification of several candidates, viewed by many as politically motivated, has spurred protests and ignited accusations of election manipulation. Civil society groups have warned that the continued persecution of political figures and the lack of transparency around the electoral process could lead to widespread unrest, undermining the legitimacy of the entire election.

Tunisia, once lauded as the only democracy to emerge from the Arab Spring, is now facing a critical test. The legal actions against Zammel—who had been seen as a significant challenger to Saied—are emblematic of the larger democratic backsliding taking place in the country. Opposition groups have voiced concerns that the sentencing could dissuade other candidates from running, cementing Saied’s dominance over the political landscape.

With Zammel’s fate hanging in the balance, the credibility of Tunisia’s upcoming election is increasingly under question. Should Zammel remain incarcerated during the vote, it could lead to heightened political instability and further alienate opposition groups, sparking broader protests and a potential crackdown on dissent.

As Tunisia heads toward a highly contentious election, the imprisonment of Ayachi Zammel casts a long shadow over the country’s fragile democratic institutions. President Kais Saied’s actions and the election’s integrity will likely define Tunisia’s political future, determining whether it can preserve its hard-won democracy or descend into autocratic rule.

The upcoming days will be crucial in revealing how opposition forces, civil society groups, and the Tunisian public respond to these growing tensions—and whether the election can proceed with any semblance of legitimacy.