Violent clashes broke out on Monday in the city of Baidoa, Somalia, between the federal army and a militia loyal to former governor of southwestern Somalia, Abd al-Aziz Laftagaren. The fighting, which is the fourth attack by Laftagaren's forces on the city in recent months, resulted in at least three deaths and 69 injuries, according to Médecins Sans Frontières. The clashes began early in the morning and involved the use of explosive-laden vehicles and drones.
According to Mohamed Ali, a senior officer in the federal army, Laftagaren's forces had allied with al-Shabaab militants to attack Baidoa. However, supporters of the former governor deny this claim. Ali stated that the army had inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers and forced them to retreat from the city. The situation in Baidoa has returned to normal, with government forces in control, Ali added.
The clashes in Baidoa are part of a broader conflict between the federal government and several regional states. Laftagaren, who was ousted as governor in March, is a critic of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's efforts to transition the country from a clan-based system to a democratic one. Mohamud's government has faced accusations of seeking to expand its powers, while regional tensions and clan divisions have hindered the organization of elections.
The use of explosive-laden vehicles and drones in the attack on Baidoa was confirmed by Mohamed Sheikh Abdullah, a spokesperson for the local administration. Abdullah held a press conference to provide details on the attack, which caused significant damage to one of the city's healthcare facilities.
Ogas Hassan, a spokesperson for Laftagaren's militia, denied any connection with al-Shabaab and claimed that the fighting in Baidoa was solely between his forces and the federal army, which he accused of being backed by Turkey. Hassan's claims were not verified, and the Turkish government has not commented on the matter.
The conflict in Somalia has been marked by ongoing violence and instability, with the federal government facing opposition from regional states and militant groups. The situation in Baidoa remains tense, with residents reporting a significant military presence in the city.
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence in Somalia, which threatens to undermine the country's fragile stability. Efforts to broker a peaceful resolution to the conflict are ongoing, but a lasting solution remains elusive.
Key points
- At least three people killed in fighting between Somali federal army and militia supporting ousted governor of southwestern state
- Clashes in Baidoa are part of broader conflict between federal government and regional states
- Violence threatens to undermine Somalia's fragile stability and hinder efforts to transition to democratic system
