Somalia PM appoints caretaker leader for Southwest state after Lafta-Gareen ouster
Southwest state has become the focal point of a renewed power struggle in recent days, with federal authorities stressing the need for an interim administration to preserve stability and prepare the ground for elections.
MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government has moved to steady the political situation in Southwest state, with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre signing a decree that installs a caretaker leader as tensions continue to unfold, officials said.
According to the order, Second Deputy Prime Minister Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi will take charge for an unspecified period until a former president is elected. His responsibilities include pushing forward preparations for one-person, one-vote elections in the regional state.
- Advertisement -
The decision comes as reports say President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel Thursday to Baidoa, the interim capital of Southwest state, for political consultations.
The appointment follows the ouster of Southwest regional President Abdulaziz Hassan Mohamed Lafta-Gareen after several days of rising political friction and clashes involving rival forces in and around Baidoa. Officials said the caretaker setup is designed to manage the transition and help clear the path toward new regional leadership.
Southwest state has become the focal point of a renewed power struggle in recent days, with federal authorities stressing the need for an interim administration to preserve stability and prepare the ground for elections.
AXADLETM