Somalia: Federal Forces Deployed to Baidoa Amid Growing Threat From Laftagareen loyalists 

BAIDOA, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government has deployed additional troops to Baidoa by air to reinforce security around the newly installed South West State administration, as forces loyal to former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen continue to pose a security challenge to the regional capital.

The troops were reportedly flown into Baidoa to protect South West State leader Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nur Madobe, senior officials and key government facilities, according to local and security sources. The federal government has not publicly disclosed the number of troops deployed or the specific units involved. 

The deployment comes amid escalating tensions between the federal government and forces loyal to Laftagareen, who was removed from office earlier this year. Laftagareen-aligned fighters have launched repeated attacks and armed incursions around Baidoa, with the latest major clashes taking place on August 17.

During the August 17 fighting, fighters loyal to Laftagareen attacked positions held by federal forces in Baidoa. The Somali government said its forces repelled the assault, while Laftagareen’s camp claimed its fighters had briefly entered parts of the city. The clashes reportedly caused dozens of casualties and forced some residents to flee their homes.

The latest deployment has further militarised Baidoa, where the federal government is seeking to consolidate the authority of the new South West administration under Aadan Madobe. Laftagareen and his supporters, however, continue to reject the federal government-backed political transition and have vowed to challenge federal forces in the city. 

The confrontation has deepened a broader political dispute between Mogadishu and South West State over leadership, constitutional changes and control of security forces. Analysts have warned that the dispute could fuel further political violence ahead of Somalia’s planned electoral process.

The deployment also comes as Baidoa remains a key security and political centre in southwestern Somalia, with the federal government and its allies seeking to prevent the city from falling under the influence of Laftagareen-aligned forces.

The Somali government has not officially confirmed reports that its latest troop deployment was specifically intended to defend Aadan Madobe, but local sources said the reinforcements were sent to strengthen security around the South West leadership and strategic government installations.

GAROWE ONLINE