With 72 of the 89 parliamentary votes cast, Liban Ahmed Hassan was elected the new leader of Galmudug State of Somalia on Thursday, 22nd October 2026, in Dhuusamareeb. His decisive victory marked a significant political transition, but what impressed me most was not simply the result.
It was the humility, gratitude and respect he displayed when he stood before the parliamentarians who had elected him and the distinguished guests gathered to witness the occasion.
Some political victories are remembered for the votes won. Others are remembered for the words spoken and the impression a leader leaves behind. For me, Liban’s election will be remembered for both.
Standing before members of the Galmudug State Parliament, senior government officials, political leaders and guests from different political backgrounds, Liban delivered a thanksgiving speech that I found particularly moving.
Having spent more than a quarter of a century in journalism, observing political leaders and reporting on major events, I have learned that leadership is often revealed in simple moments. The way a leader acknowledges others, expresses gratitude and shares the credit for success can leave an impression that lasts well beyond the celebrations.
Liban’s speech was one of those moments.
Rather than focusing entirely on his own achievement, he recognised the people who had supported him and contributed to his victory. Listening to him, I genuinely felt that I was witnessing a man with a big heart, someone who values people, appreciates loyalty and understands the importance of bringing hearts and minds together.
To me, it was a memorable expression of gratitude and political courtesy, reflecting the qualities I associate with statesmanship.
A Decisive Victory Before a Distinguished Gathering.
Representing the Justice and Unity Party (Cadaaladda iyo Wadajirka), Liban secured 72 votes against 14 for his opponent, Abdulkadir Abdullahi Dirie of the Sincad Party, while three ballots were declared invalid.
More than 400 people attended the election, including federal and state parliamentarians, government ministers, senior political figures, campaign representatives, journalists, security officials and invited guests.
Among the distinguished attendees was Ilham Ali Gassar, Somalia’s representative and a Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).
The atmosphere inside the parliamentary venue was filled with anticipation as lawmakers prepared to exercise their responsibility and political representatives followed the proceedings closely.
Despite the excitement and extensive security arrangements, the election was conducted in a calm and orderly manner. The professionalism of the parliamentary administration, election organisers, security personnel and support staff contributed to the smooth running of the occasion.
For me, witnessing these proceedings firsthand added particular meaning to an already important political moment.
A Speech That Honoured the People Behind the Victory.
Following his election, Liban delivered a speech that placed gratitude and recognition at the centre of his message.
He expressed appreciation to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, outgoing Galmudug leader Ahmed Abdi Kariye (Qoor-Qoor), Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, NISA Director Mahad Salad, MP Sabir, Minister Abshir Bukhari and other political leaders and supporters.
He also acknowledged the contributions of parliamentary officials, campaign organisers, security personnel, media professionals and the many individuals who worked behind the scenes.
Particularly meaningful was his recognition of the young men and women who had sacrificed their sleep, time and personal comfort to support his campaign.
What impressed me was the care he took to recognise those whose contributions might otherwise have gone unnoticed. His words reminded me that political victories are collective achievements. Behind every successful leader are people who offer their time, energy, loyalty and dedication.
In my personal assessment, Liban’s speech was a remarkable demonstration of gratitude and respect. It suggested an appreciation of the human relationships that make leadership possible.
Political Rivals United in Recognition.
Beyond the election itself, another important development was the congratulations Liban received from figures within both the Federal Government of Somalia and the political opposition.
In a sense, Liban has an opportunity to bring political rivals into the same conversation. This does not mean political disagreements have disappeared or that future cooperation is guaranteed.
Nevertheless, the congratulatory messages provide an opening for constructive engagement across political divides.
For Liban, maintaining productive relationships with both the Federal Government and opposition figures could help advance Galmudug’s priorities without becoming confined to one political camp.
The real significance of this goodwill will depend on whether it can be translated into cooperation that improves the lives of the people.
A Personal Milestone in My Family’s Homeland.
The occasion was especially meaningful to me because it marked my first visit to Dhuusamareeb and my first opportunity to witness a leadership election from inside a parliamentary venue.
Although I have spent more than a quarter of a century working in journalism and communications, following political developments and reporting on public events, being physically present during this election offered a different perspective.
There was also a deeply personal connection.
Galmudug is the homeland of my parents and grandparents. Visiting its capital for the first time was therefore more than a professional assignment. It was an opportunity to reconnect with a place that forms an important part of my family’s history and identity.
Inside the venue, I observed the anticipation among lawmakers, the engagement of political representatives, the dedication of journalists and the professionalism of those responsible for managing the proceedings.
I felt privileged to witness an important moment in the political life of a state to which I have always felt a strong sense of belonging.
Above all, I left with a deeper appreciation of the expectations placed upon those entrusted with public leadership.
From Political Goodwill to Public Progress.
For Liban Ahmed Hassan, the parliamentary victory has provided a clear mandate, while his speech and the political goodwill surrounding his election have created an opportunity to encourage cooperation.
The greater responsibility now is to turn that opportunity into meaningful progress.
Galmudug needs stronger security, lasting reconciliation, effective public institutions, better education and healthcare, improved infrastructure and greater economic opportunities.
Its young people need employment and skills. Businesses need an environment that supports investment and growth. Families need dependable public services, while communities deserve fair treatment regardless of their political affiliations.
Achieving these goals will require cooperation between the Galmudug administration, the Federal Government, traditional elders, business leaders, civil society, women, young people and development partners.
Liban’s ability to engage constructively with different political interests could prove useful in building that cooperation.
Ultimately, however, the people of Galmudug will judge his administration not by the number of congratulatory messages received, but by improvements in their everyday lives.
The Greater Victory Begins Now.
As I reflect on the election, the moment that remains most vivid is Liban standing before the parliamentarians who had elected him and the distinguished guests who had gathered to witness the occasion, expressing his gratitude to those who helped make his victory possible.
It was not simply the parliamentary numbers or the celebrations that stayed with me. It was the respect in his words, the generosity of his acknowledgements and the impression of a man who appreciates the importance of bringing people together.
The congratulations he received from both government and opposition figures added another dimension to the occasion, creating an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation across Somalia’s political spectrum.
The challenge now is to transform that goodwill into effective governance, stronger institutions and meaningful improvements in people’s lives.
As a journalist who witnessed the occasion firsthand, and as someone whose family roots are deeply connected to Galmudug, I extend my warm congratulations to Liban Ahmed Hassan.
May Allah grant him wisdom, humility, patience, justice and strength in serving the people of Galmudug.
May this new chapter bring peace, reconciliation, stability and prosperity to every community across the state.
Elections are won through votes. Respect is earned through character. Trust is built through service. And lasting legacies are created when political goodwill becomes meaningful progress.
Liban Ahmed Hassan has secured the mandate. His words have left an impression. Political figures across the divide have extended their congratulations. Now begins the greater responsibility of turning this moment into a more peaceful, united and prosperous future for Galmudug.
✍️by: Mohamed Said Asahaaf is a journalist and media and communications professional with more than a quarter of a century of experience across print, radio, television and digital media. His professional work spans journalism, strategic communications, public affairs, international relations and global partnerships.
