The regional bloc has warned that escalating tensions between Mogadishu and the South West State pose a national security threat if not addressed.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) cautioned that Somalia could descend into armed conflict following accusations by South West State officials that the federal government is collaborating with Al-Shabaab militants, urging inclusive dialogue to address the crisis.
The regional bloc has expressed concern that ongoing tensions between Mogadishu and the South West State may jeopardize national security if left unmanaged.
This Horn of Africa regional organization, comprising eight member nations, stated it is carefully tracking developments in South West State as a political dispute threatens to become violent.
The Djibouti-based organization stated, “IGAD is deeply concerned about escalating tensions and urges all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could worsen the situation.”
This warning comes after South West State asserted that the federal government permitted military personnel and equipment to pass through insurgent-controlled territories between Baidoa and Burhakaba.
The administration characterized this alleged collaboration as a “threat to national security,” further straining an already fragile relationship concerning constitutional reforms and the legitimacy of regional authorities.
IGAD stressed that disagreements “must be settled through inclusive dialogue and existing national mechanisms.”
The bloc reiterated its dedication to Somalia’s peace, stability, and unity, indicating it “remains prepared to support dialogue and reconciliation initiatives.”
The situation deteriorated when the Somali government deployed troops to Baidoa to oust South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen following his re-election victory on Saturday. Mogadishu dismissed the result as an “illegal self-election” contravening the constitution, electoral laws, and National Consultative Council agreements.
The African Union (AU) also intervened, calling on Somali leaders to pursue peaceful negotiations.
AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf stated, “We call upon all Somali stakeholders to exercise maximum restraint and utilize the National Consultative Council constructively to peacefully resolve differences. Dialogue constitutes the only sustainable path toward Somalia’s unity and stability.”
Mahmoud underscored the significance of the National Consultative Councila forum established to foster dialogue between the federal government and regional statesappealing to all parties to participate constructively.
The organization reaffirmed its preparedness to support reconciliation and peace-building endeavors, emphasizing the critical importance of unity and cooperation for Somalia’s stability.
South West State tensions escalated when the federal government declared Laftagareen’s mandate and the regional administration had expired, leading South West to cut ties with Mogadishu on March 17.
The confrontation occurred alongside constitutional amendments passed by Somalia’s parliament, extending President Hassan Sheikh Hassan Mohamud’s term and transitioning the electoral system toward direct parliamentary elections, departing from traditional clan-based selection methods.
South West State opposed these amendments, contending they lacked regional consensus and infringed upon federal principles. The political conflict has resulted in troop movements, clashes in the Bay region, and various disruptions, including suspended flights between Baidoa and Mogadishu, sparking concerns about potentially undermining the ongoing military offensive against Al-Shabaab.
