PM Hamza’s Visit to Baidoa Amid Ethiopian Troop Controversy

BAIDOA, Somalia – On Wednesday, amidst growing discord over the Ethiopian military presence, Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, embarked on a significant trip to Baidoa. The trip comes in the wake of worsening ties between Addis Ababa and Mogadishu.

Somalia’s government remains firm that Ethiopian forces will not participate in the new endeavor named the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). However, this decision faces resistance from authorities in the Southwest state, who acknowledge the invaluable support rendered by the Ethiopian contingent.

Abdiaziz Mohamed Hassan Lafta-Gareen, Southwest’s regional leader, greeted the Prime Minister and his delegation with open arms. The Prime Minister’s office clarified that the visit’s aim is to bolster relations between the federal administration and the regional states.

“The Prime Minister’s visit is a crucial step to reinforce the bond between Somalia’s Federal Government and the Southwest state. Dialogues will tackle the insurgents, political concerns, security measures, and economic growth,”

stated the Office of Prime Minister Hamse.

As per Somalia’s stance, Ethiopian troops must vacate once the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) wraps up in December. On the contrary, Southwest State argues that this withdrawal may jeopardize the local security landscape.

In a declaration made by Somalia’s National Security Adviser, Hussein Sheikh Ali, in June, the federal government anticipates the departure of all Ethiopian soldiers by ATMIS’s conclusion. This statement surfaced amid disputes with Ethiopia concerning access to the Red Sea, especially after Ethiopia entered an arguably unlawful agreement with Somaliland.

Earlier this week, Ethiopian forces seized several airports in Somalia’s Gedo region, disrupting flights in Luuq, Dolow, and Bardhere. Additionally, reports indicate Ethiopian troops are inching closer to border territories, amplifying the tension.

As per Somalia’s constitution, the federal government retains supreme control over four pivotal domains, which include foreign relations and national defense. During this diplomatic expedition, Prime Minister Barre was flanked by Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbalolshe, Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) director.

AXADLETM