The meeting was attended by senior police and military officers, who exchanged views on how to strengthen security cooperation in and around Baidoa to ensure the election is conducted in a peaceful and stable environment.

Sources close to the meeting told the media that the Somali National Army, particularly the Gorgor Commandos and the 60th Division forces, have assumed responsibility for securing areas outside Baidoa.

Meanwhile, police forces have been tasked with maintaining security within Baidoa, as high-level observers and representatives are expected to attend the election of the new South West State leadership.