The candidates held their campaign rallies on different days in order to avoid bouts of violence between supporters.

All three candidates promised to seek out more international recognition of Somaliland to maintain the region's security and economic development.

More than a million people have registered to vote at more than 1,000 polling sites which will be monitored by dozens of international observers.

Steve Kibble, an observer with the British organisation Progressio, said his group was encouraged that residents wanted to carry out a peaceful election that is recognised nationally and internationally.

"At this stage, we expect that such an outcome can be achieved," Kibble said.

Kahin, leader of the Democratic United National party, or Udub, was elected president in the first president election in 2003, with 42.08 per cent of ballots cast in an election won by 80 votes.

Somaliland's second presidential election has been frequently delayed. It was first scheduled for 2008, and then for 2009.

Somaliland declared its independence from Somalia in 1991 and has been relatively peaceful and stable compared with the rest of Somalia, which descended into anarchy following the 1991 ouster of longtime ruler, Mohamed Siad Barre.

The region has its own security and police forces, justice system and currency, however it is not recognised by any other state.

Polls opened at 0400GMT until 1500GMT and results are expected in one week.