A brief statement issued by the faction of former South West State President, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, denied reports claiming that he agreed to a ceasefire in South West State.
The faction’s spokesman, Ugaas Hassan Abdi Mohamed, stated in a post published on his Facebook page that there is no ceasefire agreement that Laftagareen has entered into with individuals involved in resolving the tension in South West State.
“There are no talks or decisions regarding a ceasefire reached between individuals and the President of the South West State of Somalia, Honorable Abdiasis Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen,” said Ugaas Hassan.
The spokesman also stated that his faction will continue what he described as the “struggle and liberation” of the areas in South West State, noting their aim to bring the administration and territories of South West back under their control.
“The struggle and liberation of the South West State territories will continue until they are liberated, and our people regain their sovereignty and dignity, God willing,” he added.
This statement comes at a time when the situation in and around the city of Baidoa remains calm, although forces from the opposing sides in the political conflict are still facing off outside the city.
The Federal Government of Somalia and the South West administration are also conducting military mobilizations in Baidoa, with additional troops deployed to the city.
On the other hand, forces loyal to Laftagareen remain stationed in their camps, where military movements are being reported.
The situation in South West State has been tense recently, with political factions remaining divided over the future of the administration and the approach to resolving the crisis in Baidoa.