Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -The election for the President of the Southwest State has officially commenced in Baidoa, with two candidates—Sheikh Aadan Madobe and Abdiasis Jawarey—competing for the region’s top leadership position.

Members of the regional parliament have begun casting their votes to elect a president who will serve for the next five-year term. The proceedings are taking place inside the designated election venue under close political attention.

The Baidoa election is being closely followed as a key test of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s political influence, with expectations that his preferred candidate could secure victory. Analysts say the vote reflects broader political realignments in Somalia’s federal system, drawing comparisons to the 2018 election of President Abdiaziz Laftagareen during a similar period of transition following reduced influence of the previous federal administration in regional states.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that efforts led by Minister Ali Hosh and Jibriil to persuade Sharif Hassan to enter the hall have failed. Sharif Hassan is said to have returned to his residence, while the voting process continues inside the venue.