Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Baidoa will be under a complete lockdown tomorrow, with no movement of vehicles or pedestrians permitted, according to a senior police officer in Baidoa. Exceptions will only be made for security forces, government officials, emergency response services, and travelers being transported on designated buses.
The security measure comes amid reports that armed forces loyal to President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen” have been deployed to the outskirts of Baidoa, raising concerns over a possible attack on the city.
The city is also preparing to host a disputed presidential election on June 10, 2026, during which members of the South West State Parliament are expected to elect a new regional president. The 95-member legislature is scheduled to vote, although critics and opposition figures have questioned the credibility and inclusiveness of the process.
Many observers and political actors view the election as one that largely favors Adan Mohamed Nur Madobe, who is widely considered the frontrunner. Supporters of the process reject those claims, arguing that the election is being conducted in accordance with established procedures.
The development follows escalating political and security tensions in South West State, where rival administrations continue to contest authority and control. One faction operates from within Baidoa with federal government backing, while another, aligned with Laftagareen, maintains positions on the city’s outskirts following previous clashes and prolonged political standoffs.
The situation reflects broader political fragmentation in the region, involving competing claims of legitimacy between the federal-backed administration and the Laftagareen-aligned faction
