Somali Federal Army Secures Baidoa as Southwest Leader Resigns Amid Political Tensions

Somalia's national army has successfully taken control of Baidoa, the largest city in Southwest state, following weeks of heightened political tension. The development prompted the regional leader, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, to announce his resignation, paving the way for a federal-backed transition.

Civilians walk along a deserted street following clashes between Somalia's federal army and forces loyal to the Southwest state in Baidoa, Somalia. (Reuters)

Federal Forces Establish Control in Strategic Baidoa

Earlier on Monday, federal forces entered Baidoa, a city located approximately 245 km northwest of the capital, Mogadishu, asserting full control. Eyewitnesses described the city as calm but resembling a "ghost town" following a period of unrest and the departure of many residents.

Baidoa holds significant strategic importance within the Southwest state, serving as a hub for international peacekeepers and humanitarian agencies. The region has been severely impacted by persistent drought, ongoing conflict, and widespread displacement.

Southwest President Abdiaziz Laftagareen Steps Down

Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen formally announced his resignation as President of Southwest State via a Facebook post, effective March 30, 2026. His decision follows more than seven years in office and comes two weeks after his administration declared it was severing ties with the federal government.

Laftagareen's resignation also follows a controversial re-election for a new five-year term, which the federal government had previously deemed illegal, further exacerbating the political rift.

Mogadishu Welcomes Peaceful Transition

The central government in Mogadishu has welcomed the transition in Southwest state, calling for peace, unity, and stability. Somali Information Minister Daud Aweis affirmed the government's commitment to protecting lives and property, and ensuring no acts of persecution or retaliation during this sensitive period.

In a formal decree, Ahmed Mohamed Hussein, the Southwest's finance minister, has been appointed acting president, marking the initial phase of the state's political restructuring.

Olley News Insight: Somalia's fragile federal system frequently experiences tensions between the central government and regional administrations, often stemming from disputes over electoral processes and the balance of power. This latest development in Baidoa underscores the deep-seated challenges as the nation prepares for a contentious national election later this year, with concerns rising over potential election rigging and unpopular constitutional amendments.

Concerns Over Humanitarian Impact and Future Elections

The political instability has had immediate humanitarian consequences, with many Baidoa residents having fled the city in the preceding week. Several aid agencies suspended their operations, anticipating potential clashes between federal and regional forces.

This dispute is seen as a precursor to a highly anticipated national election, where a shift from traditional clan-based representation to a "one-man, one-vote" system faces significant logistical and security hurdles. Regional leaders and opposition groups have voiced concerns that the federal government could manipulate the electoral process, further fueling mistrust.

Key Takeaways

  • Somali federal forces have taken full control of Baidoa, the capital of Southwest state.
  • Southwest state President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen resigned, effective March 30, 2026.
  • Laftagareen's resignation follows a period of escalating tensions and a disputed re-election.
  • The federal government in Mogadishu has endorsed the transition, urging calm and unity.
  • Ahmed Mohamed Hussein has been appointed acting president of Southwest state.
  • The situation highlights ongoing strains within Somalia's federal system, particularly concerning upcoming national elections and constitutional amendments.