Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – A serious political dispute is unfolding in Somalia’s South West State following reports that the region’s president, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen”, has allegedly ordered the prevention of a high-profile opposition delegation from traveling to Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of the South West State.
According to reliable sources, the delegation—led by the former Speaker of the Federal Parliament, Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman—was scheduled to fly to Baidoa on Tuesday morning.
The group reportedly included seven Members of the Federal Parliament, all of whom were traveling to participate in political activities linked to the Development and National Unity Party (DNUP), chaired by Mursal.
However, shortly before their scheduled departure, the group was reportedly barred from boarding their flight, following what is believed to be a direct order from President Laftagareen.
Speaking to Mustaqbal Media, MP Mohamed Abdi—one of the seven parliamentarians affected—confirmed the incident and voiced strong disappointment at the obstruction.
“We were seven Members of Parliament, including the former Speaker, Mohamed Mursal. Our travel to Baidoa was clearly and unjustly blocked by an order from President Abdiaziz Laftagareen,” said MP Abdi.
He added that the delegation’s purpose was not only to inaugurate the regional office of the Development and National Unity Party, but also to begin political mobilization ahead of the local council elections, which are scheduled to take place on November 30, 2025.
Former Speaker Mursal had previously warned of possible attempts to interfere with the delegation’s movements.
He condemned any action that infringes upon constitutional rights, particularly the rights to freedom of movement and political association, which are guaranteed under Somalia’s provisional constitution.
“Our party is legally registered and, like all other political entities in the country, has the right to operate freely in any region, including South West State,” Mursal asserted.
He described the blocking of the delegation as not only politically motivated but also an unlawful act that threatens the democratic processes in Somalia.
In response to the growing political tension, sources close to the Federal Government confirmed that informal negotiations are currently underway both in Mogadishu and Baidoa.
These discussions aim to de-escalate the crisis and bridge the widening gap between President Laftagareen and opposition politicians.
The incident has raised fresh concerns among civil society organizations and international observers about the increasing politicization of regional administrations, particularly in the lead-up to key local elections.
Political analysts warn that continued interference in opposition activities could further undermine confidence in Somalia’s fragile democratic transition, especially as regional and national elections approach in 2025 and 2026.
As of now, the South West regional administration has not officially responded to the allegations, and it remains unclear whether the delegation will be allowed to proceed with their planned political activities in Baidoa in the coming days.
President Abdiaziz Laftagareen has faced mounting criticism in recent months from various opposition groups who accuse him of centralizing power and curtailing political freedoms within the South West State.
The relationship between the regional administration and opposition figures—especially those affiliated with former government officials—has become increasingly strained.
Observers view the recent incident as a test case for how Somalia handles internal political competition, especially at a time when decentralization, federalism, and multiparty democracy are supposed to be gaining ground.
The decision to block elected Members of Parliament and a former speaker from engaging in legitimate political activity may have significant implications—not only for the local elections in South West State, but also for Somalia’s broader efforts to build an inclusive, democratic, and peaceful society.
Calls are growing for President Laftagareen and federal authorities to respect constitutional principles and ensure a level playing field for all political actors across the country.