The head of Somaliland’s Electoral Commision Abdirashid Mohamud Wa’ays, popularly known as Riyo-raa’ said on Wednesday he had resigned as tensions continue to simmer over an upcoming presidential vote scheduled for November 13.
The official told a press conference in Hargeisa that two opposition-picked members of the commission were behind his decision to step down, accusing them of undermining efforts to set in motion preparations for the forthcoming election.
It follows a decision by Somaliland Interior Minister Mohamed Kahin this week to ban a protest planned by opposition parties. He also instructed police and authorities in the regions to beef up security ahead of the march called by Waddani and Ucid parties.
Opposition parties threatened that they would defy government’s order and called it unconstitutional despite growing calls for restraint by local elders and religious scholars.
