Friday , June 12, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Reports from Baidoa indicate a growing military buildup by forces loyal to former Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Lafta Gareen,” amid escalating tensions following recent political developments in the region.
According to local sources, significant quantities of military equipment, including armored vehicles, anti-tank weapons, and anti-drone missile systems, have reportedly been delivered to positions held by pro-Lafta Gareen forces on the outskirts of Baidoa. The reported reinforcement is seen by supporters of the former leader as a response to what they describe as federal interference in Southwest State affairs.
The military mobilization follows the removal of Lafta Gareen from office and the installation of a new regional administration led by Adan Mohamed Nur “Adan Madobe.” Opposition figures and Lafta Gareen allies have criticized the political transition, alleging that the process lacked legitimacy and did not reflect the will of the people of Southwest State.
Sources familiar with the situation say a new recruitment and training program has recently been completed in areas surrounding Baidoa. Senior officials aligned with Lafta Gareen claim the newly trained forces have been organized to defend the political interests of Southwest State and to support efforts aimed at restoring what they describe as the region's constitutional authority.
Residents have reported increased troop movements and heightened security measures around key access routes into Baidoa, fueling concerns about the possibility of further confrontation between rival factions. Analysts warn that continued military mobilization by both sides could increase instability in the region and complicate ongoing efforts to reach a political settlement.
Neither federal authorities nor the Southwest State administration have issued detailed public statements regarding the reported military deployments.
The move follows growing political and security tensions in South West State, where rival administrations continue to contest authority and influence. One administration operates from within Baidoa with the support of the Federal Government of Somalia, while another faction aligned with Laftagareen maintains a presence on the city’s outskirts following previous confrontations and an extended political impasse.
Political observers continue to call for dialogue and restraint to prevent further escalation and to safeguard stability in Southwest State and the wider region.