As KULMIYE struggles to contain the damage from Mudane Silaanyo’, party chair, political bombshell, regarding his continued belief in a “federal Somalia”, It is time to look beyond the current leadership of the party and to the future. KULMIYE, like all the Somaliland political parties, is blessed with a talented, dedicated and patriotic members and supporters. But, both UDUB and UCID are fortunate enough to be led by two men committed to Somaliland.  Unfortunately, this not the case for KULMIYE. There is no doubt that Mudane Silaanyo has played a significant role Somaliland politics,  however, the question remains, what can explain Mudane Silaanyo’s baffling support of a “federal Somalia”? Does, Mudane Silaanyo hope to one day occupy Villa Somalia? Does Mudane Silaanyo believe that Somalia will come out of its anarchy and mayhem in our life time?

No, I don’t think so. Sadly, it all comes down to personal ambition over reality and modesty. To become Somaliland’s president one must have more than a glowing curriculum vitae. It requires strength of character, vision, toughness, humility, practicality, and leadership, and above all, a commitment to Somaliland.

KULMIYE has several prominent members who possess such abilities, and it is time they stepped forward.  There are two obvious candidates and one not so obvious. Many may agree or disagree, or may even have their own candidates.

The first candidate is Mr. Ahmed Hussein Isse. It is worth remembering that Mr. Hussein Isse was a recent candidate for the chair of the KULMIYE at the last party conference.

Mr. Hussein Isse is a politician of note, with a vision and strength of character. Granted Mr. Hussein Isse may not have the charisma of a Mudane Silaanyo, but he possesses a rare talent, the ability to get things done. Take a look at his current work with Abaarso Tech in Gabiley.

The second candidate will surprise a lot of people, because the man in question has a history. I refer to the current deputy KULMIYE chair, Mr. Muse Bihi.

Mr. Bihi may come across an unapproachable and belligerent, but behind the harsh façade lies a true Somalilander; a family man and a pragmatic person. A no nonsense character for sure, and no one can forget his remarkable statement in the 1990’s, but, nevertheless Mr. Bihi has the strength of character to serve the nation.

The third and not so obvious candidate is Congressman Payne of New Jersey. Mr. Payne has neither the vision, nor the humility, character nor fortitude to be a Somaliland leader, but having hijacked the party, KULMIYE may as well make him chair.

But, seriously, there are many worthy candidates in KULMIYE, and even more encouragingly, the future seems bright for the party once the current tired, discredit and visionless leadership leaves the scene. I just hope it is not too late.

By Cali M.Abokor

Email: ruraledcomm@yahoo.co.uk