By Horn Africa News
Baidoa — The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, Ambassador James Swan, held high-level talks Monday with South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed ‘Laftagareen’ and his cabinet to review pressing political and security matters.
Discussions focused on election preparations, humanitarian needs, and the ongoing stabilization campaign across the region. South West State leaders briefed Swan on recent security gains, including the recovery of Sabiid and Bariire in Lower Shabelle, describing them as important steps toward consolidating peace.
President Laftagareen also highlighted progress in voter registration, stressing outreach to women, youth, internally displaced persons, and marginalized groups through mobile registration initiatives.
In a statement, Swan noted: “We also discussed the challenges of assisting displaced communities amid uncertainty in humanitarian funding. I assured the President that, despite global funding shortfalls, the United Nations will continue to do its utmost within available resources to help those most in need.”
The UN envoy emphasized the need for unity and inclusive dialogue among Somalia’s federal and state leaders, commending Laftagareen’s constructive role in past negotiations and urging him to continue fostering cooperation.
Swan reaffirmed that the United Nations remains committed to working with both South West State and the Federal Government of Somalia in advancing peace, state-building, security, and humanitarian priorities.
Somalia has long grappled with delays and disputes over its electoral process, hindering democratization efforts. Both sides underscored the importance of all political stakeholders rallying behind the new electoral framework to break the cycle of uncertainty and move toward lasting stability.
