In a press statement released yesterday, the command stated that the measure is intended to protect civilian safety, as some locations are considered potential security risk areas.

The command also called on the public to remain highly vigilant and to limit movement toward election venues and military positions until further notice.

The warning comes as local council and representative elections are officially expected to begin on Sunday across South West State.

The elections are taking place amid ongoing political tensions and growing concerns over the security situation in the region.

There is significant scrutiny surrounding how these elections will be conducted, with Baidoa emerging as the main focal point of attention in the coming days.

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Speaking during a sermon at a mosque in the city of Baidoa, the President addressed a brief clash that took place on Thursday in parts of the city.

He described the incident as a deliberate and coordinated attempt to create disorder and insecurity, which was swiftly contained by South West State security forces.

President Laftagareen stated that the violence was orchestrated by individuals with links to the Federal Government of Somalia and groups based in Mogadishu, although he did not disclose specific names.

He emphasized that such interference poses a serious threat to peaceful coexistence and the ongoing development in Baidoa.

“There will be no armed individuals operating outside the authority of the South West administration. All weapons must remain under the control of the government,” President Laftagareen said, adding that strict action will be taken against any group that violates this order.

He further underscored that political engagement must follow legal and constitutional channels, calling on anyone with political ambitions or views to pursue them through lawful institutions rather than through intimidation or the use of force.

President Laftagareen reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding peace, development, and social unity in the South West State, and reiterated their readiness to confront any actions that threaten security and governance in the region.

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Military officials from South West State said the clash began at dawn when Al-Shabaab fighters launched a surprise attack on a military base in Baay Burjeed manned by regional troops.

The confrontation resulted in deaths and injuries on both sides.

In an official statement, the South West State government confirmed that its forces had repelled the attack and dealt a significant blow to Al-Shabaab.

The statement also noted that bodies believed to be those of Al-Shabaab fighters were brought to Baidoa after the fighting.

Officials also confirmed the loss of several South West State officers during the confrontation.

Following the attack, residents of Baidoa and regional security forces gathered in the city center to express their support and celebrate what they described as a military victory.

The assault reportedly began with explosions targeting the military outpost before an armed assault ensued.

Security forces said they repelled the attack, killing and wounding several of the attackers.

“The Council of Ministers praised the Armed Forces for defeating the surprise assault launched by the Khawarij Al-Shabaab on army and Darawish positions near Baidoa,” read a statement from the South West State presidency.

President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen) later visited frontline troops in Baidoa to commend their efforts and encourage them to continue defending the region.

“We will hunt them down everywhere — in villages, towns, wherever they try to hide,” president Laftagareen declared.

Al-Shabaab, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the Somali government, the United Nations, and other international actors, has intensified its operations across southern and central Somalia in recent months.

The group has regained control over various areas in Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and Lower Shabelle.

Despite ongoing military operations, Al-Shabaab maintains control over many rural areas and key roads in South West State, restricting civilian travel.

However, reports from towns such as Xudur, Diinsoor, and Waajid suggest that the group has recently begun allowing public vehicles to use certain routes leading to Baidoa.

It remains unclear whether this shift is part of a broader strategy by Al-Shabaab to expand its influence and territorial control in southern and central Somalia.

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