Galmudug vice president offers mediation in federal–Southwest election dispute

Sunday March 22, 2026

Dhusamareb (AX) — With Somalia’s federal leadership and the Southwest State locked in an increasingly sharp political standoff, Galmudug Vice President Ali Dahir Iid on Thursday stepped forward with an offer to broker talks, pressing both Mogadishu and Baidoa to return to dialogue before the dispute deepens.

Iid said Galmudug stands ready to help “lay the groundwork” for renewed discussions between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Southwest State administration, arguing that a prolonged confrontation would carry serious consequences for national stability and development.

“Once again, I call on Galmudug to be ready to resolve the ongoing issues in Mogadishu and Baidoa,” he said.

He described the country as being at a delicate moment that demands unity and restraint, warning that steps taken in anger could reopen old political rifts and set back hard-won gains.

To help cool the dispute, Iid urged religious scholars, traditional elders and political leaders to engage directly in de-escalation efforts and push both sides back to the negotiating table.

“Such conflicts are what destroyed Somali statehood. If they continue, they could undermine the peace, prosperity and progress that is underway today,” Iid said.

The vice president also pointed to a recent statement by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signaling a willingness to talk, welcoming the gesture and calling on Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen to respond in kind.

“A lasting solution cannot be achieved through violence or oppression. We must come together and collectively discuss the issues in dispute,” he said.

Iid’s mediation offer comes as relations between the federal government and the Southwest State worsen. Laftagareen has accused President Hassan Sheikh of preventing regional elections since 2022, an allegation the federal government has not publicly addressed.

The clash is playing out against wider disagreements over proposed constitutional amendments and the electoral framework. In recent weeks, ties between Mogadishu and several federal member states have frayed, fueling fears of political fragmentation as major electoral deadlines draw nearer.