Tag: Abdiaziz Laftagareen

Somalia’s Ministry of Interior has formed a ten-member technical committee to lead reconciliation efforts in the Southwest State, following recent political changes and a presidential visit to Baidoa. The team is tasked with fostering lasting peace and preparing for a one-person, one-vote election in the region.

After forces loyal to Southwest State's security apparatus—reportedly supported by Somali National Army (SNA) elements—engaged in a violent confrontation with troops under the direct command of the Southwest administration, there have been intense heavy weapon exchanges in Baydhabo, especially near the city's main livestock market. The conflict has led to a dangerous escalation of internal power struggles within the region's security forces.

In a sharp escalation of federal-regional tensions, Somalia’s Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Ali-Hoosh has issued a decree appointing a new governor for Bakool and a new mayor for Xudur, bypassing Southwest State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen and citing security concerns and the push for one-person, one-vote elections.