Somalia’s Southwest president reaffirms break with Mogadishu, urges international intervention

Thursday March 19, 2026

Baidoa (AX) — Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen on Wednesday reaffirmed a break in relations with Somalia’s federal government, accusing Mogadishu of undercutting federalism and destabilizing his region.

“Starting today, there will be no contact between us and the federal government until something Somalis agree on is brought,” Laftagareen told reporters at a press conference in Baidoa.

The regional leader said cooperation with the central government will not resume until a consensus-based national political framework is restored.

Laftagareen accused federal authorities of meddling in Southwest’s internal affairs, including security, and attempting to weaken the regional administration. He further alleged the central government is trying to split forces on the front lines against al-Shabab.

“We strongly condemn actions aimed at dividing society and destroying the federal system,” he said.

He also criticized recent constitutional amendments approved by the federal parliament, insisting the 2012 provisional constitution remains the only legitimate legal framework. He described the newly adopted constitution as incomplete and advanced through what he called a flawed, interest-driven process.

The president added that flights to Baidoa have been blocked and that residents of Southwest are facing travel restrictions. He accused authorities at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport of turning the facility into a “political checkpoint,” alleging discrimination based on political views.

Laftagareen urged residents of Southwest State to remain united and prepared to defend the region’s autonomy. He also called on international actors, including the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), to intervene as the dispute escalates.

The federal government has not directly responded to Laftagareen’s latest remarks. However, the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation said Wednesday it is closely monitoring rising tensions and warned that continued political friction could undermine peace and stability.

In a statement, the ministry emphasized preserving constitutional order and the federal system of governance, urging dialogue and restraint.

The standoff further strains Somalia’s federal structure, as disagreements over constitutional reform and the electoral framework deepen rifts between Mogadishu and several federal member states.