MOGADISHU — President of Southwest State, Abdiaziz Laftagareen, has requested dialogue with Somalia’s Federal Government over an escalating political dispute, as Horn Africa News according to sources close to the presidency.
Well-placed sources said Laftagareen conveyed his request for negotiations to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud through intermediaries within Villa Somalia, seeking to defuse tensions linked to political disagreements and control over regional administration.
However, President Mohamud reportedly rejected the proposal, signaling that the federal government has already reached a firm decision regarding the situation in Southwest State. Sources indicate the president told mediators that the government considers the matter settled and is proceeding with its plans.
Meanwhile, federal government troops that departed Buurhakaba earlier today are now reported to be on the outskirts of Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of Southwest State. Residents have reported increased military presence along key routes leading into the city, with checkpoints tightened and movement partially restricted.
Security sources say the forces are advancing in coordinated units, supported by armored vehicles and logistical convoys, suggesting a planned operation rather than a routine deployment. Local officials and community elders have expressed concern over the risk of clashes if forces attempt to enter and take control of the city.
The situation has raised fears of renewed instability in the Bay region, where political tensions between Mogadishu and the Southwest administration have been building in recent weeks. Analysts warn that a failure to pursue dialogue could deepen divisions and potentially trigger armed confrontation.
There has been no immediate public statement from either Villa Somalia or the Southwest State leadership, but diplomatic sources say regional and international partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, are closely monitoring developments and may call for restraint to avoid further escalation.
