Baidoa experiences heavy fighting amid Southwest State leadership dispute

Heavy fighting has erupted in Baidoa, the capital of Somalia’s Bay region, as a political dispute over the governance of Southwest State escalates into armed confrontation. The conflict involves forces aligned with the Federal Government of Somalia, supporting the administration of Adan Madobe, and Southwest State Darawish forces loyal to former President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen’.

Reports indicate that Darawish forces reached the Afar Irdoodka area in the city center, prompting the Federal Government to deploy significant troop reinforcements to defend the current administration. The situation remains tense, with ongoing gunfire reported in the city.

The conflict has led to a growing humanitarian and security crisis. Allegations have surfaced regarding the use of sophisticated military hardware, including drones and F-16 fighter aircraft, in operations around the city. While these claims of aerial operations have not been independently verified, Laftagareen has called upon the United Nations, African Union, and other international bodies to investigate.

Civilian impact is mounting. Following fighting on September 3, Bay Regional Hospital reportedly treated 71 wounded individuals, including 15 women, and one civilian death was recorded. Residents have been urged to remain in their homes as the intensity of the confrontation continues to fluctuate.