Saleban had served as Chairman of the Guurti since 18 August 2004, when his predecessor, Sheikh Ibrahim Sheikh Yusuf Sheikh Madar, passed away.

His tenure lasted nearly 22 years, making him one of the longest-serving parliamentary leaders in Somaliland’s history.

Speaking during the resignation announcement, Saleban said he had been a member of the Guurti for nearly 34 years.

“I ask you to accept my resignation and allow me to leave my position,” he told fellow members.

Known widely as “Saleban Gaal,” the veteran politician is currently 92 years old and is considered one of Somaliland’s oldest political figures.

Many Somalilanders viewed his decision as appropriate, arguing that leading the Guurti is a demanding responsibility that requires a person capable of dedicating long hours to the institution.

Saleban said age and health-related challenges had made it difficult for him to continue carrying out the heavy responsibilities attached to leading Somaliland’s upper house of parliament.

Election of a New Guurti Chairman

On the same day as Saleban’s resignation, three candidates initially submitted their bids for the chairmanship.

After the Guurti formally approved the former chairman’s resignation, the candidates for the position of Chairman of the Somaliland House of Elders were announced as:

1. MP Muuse Haji Abdi Duale
2. MP Sahal Iidle Dirir
3. Sultan Ismaail Sultan Abdirahmaan, who later withdrew from the race

The election was held on Sunday, 12 July 2026.

A total of 73 members voted by show of hands in favour of MP Muuse Haji Abdi Duale becoming the new Chairman of the Somaliland Guurti.

Saleban Mohamud Adan did not participate in the vote, as he had resigned both from the chairmanship and his membership of the chamber. Eight members voted for the second candidate, Sahal Iidle Dirir.

The Somaliland Guurti consists of 82 members.

What Is the Role of the Guurti?

The Somaliland Guurti is one of the country’s most important institutions in the structure of governance. It serves as the upper house of parliament and represents traditional elders and different clans across Somaliland.

Unlike a conventional parliamentary chamber, the Guurti also functions as a traditional council of elders with a significant role in peacebuilding, conflict resolution between clans and maintaining social stability.

Since its establishment in 1993, it has played a central role in Somaliland’s political development.

The institution is widely seen as a bridge between Somaliland’s traditional leadership structures and modern state institutions. Over the years, the Guurti has frequently intervened in political and social disputes, helping mediate disagreements between clans, political actors and communities.

However, Sunday’s leadership change, particularly the end of Saleban Mohamud Adan’s nearly 22-year tenure as chairman, has reopened discussions about reform and modernisation of the institution.

While the Guurti has earned recognition for its role in resolving conflicts and maintaining peace, its long period without full democratic renewal or direct elections has raised questions about representation, accountability and whether it aligns with Somaliland’s democratic aspirations.

Challenges Facing the New Guurti Leadership

The new Guurti leadership faces the challenge of preserving the institution’s traditional role while adapting it to the needs of a modern state.

The chamber has frequently faced criticism over its involvement in extending the terms of government institutions, which critics argue contributed to delays in holding elections, including local council elections.

The new leadership will face pressure to address these concerns and demonstrate stronger commitment to democratic principles, constitutional governance and timely elections.

The transition could provide an opportunity to rebuild public confidence, strengthen legislative oversight and preserve the role of traditional elders while ensuring the institution reflects Somaliland’s evolving political system.

The Guurti leadership transition comes at a significant moment for Somaliland, following its recognition by Israel, which Somaliland described as a historic diplomatic achievement.

The move has created new opportunities for international engagement and economic cooperation, while also generating debate and concern in the region and beyond.

The recognition brings new diplomatic possibilities but also increases expectations that Somaliland’s institutions demonstrate stability, transparency, effective governance and respect for constitutional principles, including holding elections within their legally defined timelines.

The future of the Somaliland Guurti will therefore depend on how it balances two competing demands: preserving its historic role in maintaining peace and social stability, while transforming into a modern institution capable of supporting a democratic state seeking greater international recognition and integration.

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