Political tensions in Somalia’s South West State are escalating amid allegations that regional leader Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nur (Aadan Madoobe) has launched a campaign against individuals accused of maintaining ties to former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen), further deepening divisions within the administration.
The accusations come as a bitter power struggle between Aadan Madoobe and Laftagareen continues to shape the political landscape in Baidoa.
Since assuming leadership earlier this year with backing from the Federal Government of Somalia, Aadan Madoobe has faced persistent opposition from Laftagareen and his supporters, who argue that the leadership transition lacked both legal and political legitimacy.
Reports from Baidoa suggest that the dispute has increasingly spilled beyond politics and into security matters.
Sources indicate that forces loyal to Laftagareen have been carrying out movements in and around the city, prompting the current administration to reinforce security deployments and strengthen protection around key government facilities.
On August 27, Aadan Madoobe visited frontline security positions in and around Baidoa, where he met military commanders and praised security forces for their role in maintaining stability.
He has repeatedly stated that strengthening security and consolidating the authority of his administration remain top priorities.
However, supporters of Laftagareen claim the security measures are being used to sideline political rivals and weaken the former president’s influence within South West State.
They accuse both the regional administration and the federal government of attempting to marginalize figures associated with Laftagareen, allegations that have further intensified the political standoff.
The dispute has raised concerns that ordinary civilians could become caught in the middle if political rivalries increasingly take on clan or social dimensions.
Observers warn that allegations of political targeting, if left unresolved, risk widening divisions within communities already affected by years of political instability and insecurity.
Baidoa, the administrative capital of South West State, has experienced several periods of political turmoil in recent years. Analysts fear the current crisis could further polarize the region and undermine efforts to build consensus among political actors.
Aadan Madoobe also faces the challenge of unifying South West’s security forces and political institutions.
While he enjoys federal backing, the continued presence of armed supporters and political allies of Laftagareen means the situation remains fragile, with tensions capable of flaring at any time.
The standoff is also generating concern among security experts who warn that internal political disputes could distract attention from the fight against Al-Shabaab.
South West State remains one of the most important fronts in Somalia’s campaign against the militant group, particularly in the Bay and Bakool regions.
Analysts have long argued that prolonged political infighting weakens coordination among security forces and creates opportunities for Al-Shabaab to exploit divisions.
Any deterioration in cooperation between rival political factions could complicate ongoing security operations and affect broader stabilization efforts.
As tensions continue to rise, pressure is mounting on both sides to pursue a political solution.
Without meaningful dialogue and compromise, observers warn that the dispute could further destabilize Baidoa, affect local governance, disrupt economic activity, and create new security challenges across South West State.