Tag: Southwest State

Ousted Southwest state president Abdiasis Laftagaren has forcefully renewed his claim to office, declaring in a televised interview that he remains the region’s lawful...

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.

A federal delegation landed in Baidoa on Tuesday to manage the political transition in Southwest State, a day after regional president Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen stepped down after seven years in power. The visit marks the first time some senior officials have returned to the city since a long-running political dispute, with second deputy prime minister Jibriil Adirashiid appointed to head the interim administration.

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.

Fresh from his re-election victory, the President of Southwest State has pledged to consolidate security gains, accelerate development projects, and expand healthcare services, asking for continued support to “complete what remains” of his administration’s agenda.

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.

Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has cautioned that the federal government’s approach to political tensions in Southwest State threatens regional stability and civilian safety. He called for genuine dialogue, stating that a peaceful resolution remains possible if the federal leadership engages in good faith.