Baidoa talks focus on political reconciliation and stability in South West Somalia

BAIDOA, Somalia — South West State leader Sheikh Aadan Mohamed Nur Madobe has met former Somali parliament speaker Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman in Baidoa as political consultations intensify ahead of a planned reconciliation forum in the regional capital.

Madobe received Mursal and his delegation at the presidential palace in Baidoa, with the meeting focusing on political consultations, cooperation and the broader situation in South West State.

The discussions covered politics, security, state-building and efforts to strengthen unity and social cohesion in the region, according to a statement issued after the meeting.

Mursal’s visit is part of efforts to increase the participation of Somali political figures in a reconciliation process expected to open soon in Baidoa.

The two sides also stressed the importance of continued dialogue and political consultation to create conditions for political stability, lasting peace and inclusive development.

During the meeting, the delegation and South West officials exchanged views on developments in Somalia and the regional state. They emphasised the need to address political disagreements through dialogue, mutual respect and agreed political solutions.

Madobe thanked Mursal and his delegation for visiting Baidoa and participating in preparations for the reconciliation forum.

The South West leader also welcomed the involvement of Somali political leaders, traditional elders, religious scholars and other sections of society in efforts to promote consultation, peace, state-building and unity among the people of South West State.

Madobe said cooperation and the exchange of views were important to strengthening governance and stability in the region.

The planned reconciliation forum comes as South West State faces heightened political tensions, with disputes involving regional and federal authorities and competing political groups.