Tuesday , June 16, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -A political gathering in the central Somali town of Abudwaq was disrupted on Tuesday night after armed men opposed to politician Libaan Shuluq entered the area where the event was being held, according to local residents and witnesses.
The event had been organized by supporters of Mr. Shuluq, a prominent political figure widely regarded as being close to Somalia’s federal leadership. He has also been linked to potential leadership ambitions in Galmudug State ahead of the region’s next electoral cycle.
Witnesses said armed militia members opposed to Mr. Shuluq’s candidacy converged on a hotel hosting the gathering, triggering panic among attendees. Participants reportedly fled the venue as tensions escalated, forcing organizers to bring the event to an abrupt end.
“There was confusion and fear as armed men approached the hotel,” one local resident said. “People quickly left the area to avoid any possible confrontation.”
No casualties or arrests were immediately reported following the incident, and local authorities had not issued an official statement by the time of publication.
The disruption comes amid rising political tensions in Galmudug, where rival groups are increasingly competing for influence ahead of the state’s next leadership contest. Political observers say the incident highlights the growing divisions surrounding prospective candidates and the challenges facing efforts to maintain stability during the political process.