The President of Somalia’s South West State, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Lafta-Gareen), on Monday appointed a nine-member electoral and boundaries committee, escalating a bitter political standoff with the federal government over the region’s leadership.
The newly formed committee, chaired by Shuayb Nuur Hussein, has been tasked with organizing elections for both the state parliament and the presidency. The move signals Lafta-Gareen’s intent to proceed with a unilateral election in Baidoa, the regional capital, drawing direct comparisons to the 2013 path taken by Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe, who consolidated power through a disputed local process.
“This committee is mandated to commence its work immediately and undertake the duties assigned to it,” a statement from Lafta-Gareen’s office said, underscoring the administration’s determination to move forward despite fierce opposition.
The federal government swiftly rejected the initiative. On Sunday, the Ministry of Interior issued a decree declaring that Lafta-Gareen lacks legal authority, insisting that all district and regional officials must continue their duties until a legitimate president is elected. The Ministry warned against any administrative vacuum and stressed the need to protect stability and public services in the region