(18-10-23) BAIDOA — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Baidoa, the capital of Somalia’s Bay Region, Tuesday afternoon for urgent discussions with regional officials. The focus of the talks is the second phase of the war against Al-Shabaab, as well as a brewing electoral crisis.
Mohamud was welcomed by South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, accompanied by a host of political and military figures. Upon his arrival, the President received a salute from the Somali National Army and was subsequently escorted to the presidential palace of the South West State.
“The visit aims to accelerate the second phase offensive against Al-Shabaab,” announced a statement from the South West State. The timing of Mohamud’s trip is critical, given Somalia’s ongoing battle against the threats posed by Al-Shabaab.
In addition to addressing security concerns, Mohamud will engage in dialogues with Laftagareen and other regional dignitaries to untangle the electoral complications that have beset the region. Opposition members have voiced significant apprehensions about the electoral process, adding complexity to Mohamud’s visit.
To prepare for the President’s arrival and subsequent delegation visits, security measures have been notably enhanced in Huddur town, located in the Bakool Region. This move underscores the delicate equilibrium authorities aim to maintain between political negotiations and national security.
While the duration of Mohamud’s stay in Baidoa remains uncertain, his extensive itinerary suggests a lengthier visit. The President has recently returned from a two-month deployment in Galmudug, where he took the lead in the first phase offensive against Al-Shabaab.
Mohamud’s trip marks his second visit to Baidoa since his re-election on May 15. However, this visit occurs at a pivotal moment, considering the dual crises facing the region—an unsettled electoral process and a continuing battle against terrorism.
Halqabsi News
