Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Security has been significantly tightened in Baidoa over the past 24 hours as the city prepares for a scheduled electoral process expected to take place tomorrow.
Residents and local sources report increased aerial activity, with military aircraft observed circling over Baidoa city and surrounding areas since last night. The heightened surveillance is believed to be part of broader security operations aimed at maintaining stability ahead of the vote.
On the ground, security forces have reinforced checkpoints across key entry and exit points of the city. Additional troops have reportedly been deployed by federal authorities to strengthen control and prevent any potential disruptions to public order.
According to local sources, aircraft have also been conducting patrols over and around the city as part of ongoing monitoring operations.
At the same time, forces aligned with President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen” have been stationed in areas near Baidoa. These groups are reported to oppose the formation of a new regional administration in South West State, adding to political tensions in the area.
The visit comes amid rising political and security tensions in South West State, where rival administrations continue to dispute authority and control. One faction operates from within Baidoa under federal backing, while another, aligned with President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen,” maintains positions on the 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. As security forces remain on high alert and political stakeholders prepare for the upcoming electoral process, observers warn that maintaining stability and preventing confrontation will be critical to ensuring peace and safeguarding the interests of the local population. The developments in Baidoa are being closely watched as a significant test for political reconciliation and governance in South West State.
