Macawisley fighters seize regional administration compound in Beledweyne

Armed Macawisley community fighters, accompanied by local politicians and businesspeople, took control of parts of the Lama-Galay compound in Beledweyne on Friday, October 31, 2026. The occupation occurred amid growing opposition to the Hirshabelle administration and follows the announcement that Hirshabelle Vice President Abdifatah Hassan Afrah would arrive in the town with a delegation.

The Lama-Galay compound houses both the Hiiraan regional administration offices and a Somali National Army base. During the takeover, Somali National Army troops stationed at the entrance withdrew without firing a shot. The fighters established positions around the administration offices, the entrance to the Liqliqato Bridge, and outside Ugas Khalif Airport.

The situation involves a dispute over the Hiiraan governorship. Mohamed Hussein Mohamed Arab, who was dismissed by President Ali Gudlawe, has refused to vacate the administration offices. Meanwhile, the Hirshabelle-appointed governor, Muse Salad Weheliye, is stationed in the rear section of the compound used by the military. Tensions in the region have also been fueled by disagreements regarding the distribution of tax revenue from the Beledweyne livestock market.