(21-07-23) BAIDOA — Lorryloads of commercial supplies made their way into Baidoa on Friday, marking the end of a weeks-long siege that had caused considerable stress for residents. The blockade, enforced by Al-Shabaab militants, had led to an alarming surge in commodity prices, causing considerable strain on the community. Fuel prices had soared to as high as two dollars per litre, whilst a single glass of milk fetched an unprecedented three dollars.
The unanticipated break in the siege was sparked by internal disputes among the Al-Shabaab ranks. Conflict erupted, leading to the reported deaths of two of their fighters. A critical turn of events appears to have hastened the end of the blockade.
In tandem with these developments, government sources from the Southwest reported the forced eviction of over 650 individuals, primarily women and children, all with ties to Al-Shabaab, from the town of Baidoa. The relationship between this mass eviction and the internal disagreements among the militants is currently under close observation by Southwest State officials.
A spokesperson for the Southwest Government has refuted claims that the administration had a hand in negotiating the release of the lorries, despite local media reports implying that regional elders had a significant role in the matter. An official has hinted that military operations are being strategised to target Mooda-Moode, an area allegedly being used by al-Shabaab to set up checkpoints for lorry interceptions.
Analysts posit that this rift within Al-Shabaab, seemingly a catalyst for the lifting of the blockade, might have far-reaching consequences. Discussions of easing the sieges on other beleaguered Southwest districts have already surfaced, hinting at the possibility that the unrest in Baidoa may ripple outwards.
As Baidoa’s marketplaces once again bustle with trade, the region holds its breath. The repercussions of this internal conflict within Al-Shabaab and its potential impact on the region’s stability are yet to unfold fully. Baidoa, and indeed the wider region, brace themselves for the uncertain future that lies in the wake of these recent events.
