Somalia’s federal forces have seized control of Baidoa, the largest city in Southwest State, triggering the resignation of regional president Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen. The takeover followed a dispute with the federal government, which had rejected Laftagareen’s recent reelection and clashed with his administration over constitutional changes. Laftagareen’s administration cut ties with Mogadishu just two weeks ago. The strategic city, usually bustling with peacekeepers and aid agencies, now sits eerily quiet as residents fled ahead of the takeover. Authorities in Mogadishu have since called for calm and promised a peaceful transition, appointing an acting regional leader. The standoff highlights ongoing strains in Somalia’s fragile federal system, especially as the country approaches a contentious national election that could further test relations between the central government and regional states.
Al Jazeera
