Somalia faces rising political and security tensions

Somalia is experiencing heightened political and security tensions across several regions. In Baidoa, the capital of South West State, government forces clashed with troops loyal to ousted leader Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen. The assault involved vehicles laden with explosives, and while Laftagareen’s supporters claimed to have seized parts of the city, federal troops reportedly regained control after several hours of fighting. Doctors Without Borders confirmed that the clashes resulted in casualties at local hospitals.

In Puntland, authorities have moved to consolidate security by absorbing personnel previously aligned with politician Mohamud Mashruuc into the state’s formal security structures. Simultaneously, Puntland officials have accused the Federal Government of attempting to destabilize the region. Minister Mohamud Ayid Dirir demanded the return of former security personnel currently in Galmudug, alleging they were part of a plot to create chaos in Galkayo.

Adding to the domestic friction, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire issued a critique of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration. Khaire accused the government of presiding over economic decline, rising inflation, and increased poverty and displacement during its tenure.