BAIDOA, Somalia, (Horn post) The president of Southwest State of Somalia, Abdicaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, has announced his resignation, deepening uncertainty in the regional administration following armed clashes in the state capital, Baidoa.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page late Sunday, Laftagareen said he had stepped down from office effective March 30, 2026.
“Starting today, March 30, 2026, I have resigned from my position as President of the Southwest State,” the statement read.
Sudden Exit and Unconfirmed Departure
Local sources in Baidoa told reporters that Laftagareen departed the city shortly after issuing his resignation, reportedly leaving the country. His destination, however, has not been confirmed, and officials have yet to provide details on his whereabouts.
The abrupt resignation comes just days after a controversial regional election in which Laftagareen had been re-elected for another term, a move that had already heightened political tensions.
Clashes Between Federal and Regional Forces
The resignation follows fighting earlier on Sunday between forces aligned with the Federal Government of Somalia and troops loyal to the Southwest administration in Baidoa.
The clashes are part of a broader dispute that has escalated in recent weeks, reflecting deepening divisions between federal authorities in Mogadishu and several federal member states.
Somalia’s national army said it had taken control of parts of Baidoa following the confrontation, though independent verification of the extent of its control remains limited.
Escalating Political Crisis
The developments have come nearly two weeks after leaders of several federal member states announced a suspension of cooperation with the central government, citing disagreements over governance, elections, and power-sharing arrangements.
Analysts say Laftagareen’s resignation could trigger a leadership vacuum in Southwest State, potentially complicating efforts to stabilize the region and manage ongoing security challenges.
International Presence and Humanitarian Concerns
Baidoa hosts international peacekeeping forces and humanitarian organizations operating in areas severely affected by drought, conflict, and displacement. The latest violence has raised concerns among aid groups about the potential impact on civilian populations and relief operations.
No official statement has yet been issued by African Union peacekeeping forces or the United Nations regarding the situation.
Uncertain Transition
It remains unclear who will assume interim leadership in Southwest State or how the transition process will unfold. Somalia’s federal framework provides for constitutional mechanisms to address such vacancies, but the current political tensions may complicate their implementation.
The situation in Baidoa remains fluid, with further developments expected as federal and regional actors respond to the evolving crisis.
Prepared by: Horn Post Staff
Contact: info@hornpost.com
Website: www.hornpost.com
