Violent clashes have erupted once again in Somalia's Baidoa city, pitting federal government forces against armed groups loyal to former South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen. The confrontation marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing political and security crisis gripping the regional capital.

According to local residents and military sources, militias aligned with Abdiaziz launched coordinated attacks on federal troops from multiple directions. The federal forces responded with heavy weaponry, resulting in civilian casualties including at least two deaths and several injuries from stray bullets.

Abdiaziz’s representatives claimed on social media that their forces had taken control of Baidoa and urged federal soldiers to surrender, though these assertions have not been independently confirmed.

Background to the Conflict

The recent fighting follows months of strained relations between Mogadishu and Abdiaziz’s administration. In March, federal forces moved decisively to assert control over Baidoa, seizing key installations such as police stations and commercial hubs. This military action led to Abdiaziz’s resignation and the installation of Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur “Madobe” as the new South West State president in June.

Despite the federal takeover, tensions remained high. The federal government accused Abdiaziz-aligned militias of collaborating with Al-Shabaab fighters. Meanwhile, South West State officials criticized Mogadishu for allegedly diverting security supplies intended for national counterterrorism efforts.

Current Situation and Implications

  • Fighting has been reported across several Baidoa neighborhoods including Siliga, Warshadda Hassay, and Mursal.
  • Communications disruptions and videos showing armed convoys and smoke plumes have circulated on social media.
  • The scale of casualties remains uncertain amid conflicting reports from government and militia sources.
  • Baidoa remains a strategic city, serving as a humanitarian hub for displaced populations amid severe drought and food insecurity.

Humanitarian agencies warn of worsening malnutrition, with Médecins Sans Frontières highlighting that their treatment facilities are overwhelmed by severely malnourished children. Over 6.5 million Somalis face acute food shortages, with nearly 1.84 million children under five at risk of severe malnutrition this year.

The renewed hostilities threaten to further destabilize the fragile federal arrangement in Somalia and complicate efforts to combat militant groups and address humanitarian crises.