Former Somali parliament speaker arrives in Baidoa for reconciliation talks

Baidoa (HOL) — A delegation led by former Somali Lower House Speaker Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman arrived in Baidoa on Thursday as political and security tensions continued in South West State.

The delegation travelled to Baidoa as part of efforts to calm the situation and promote political dialogue ahead of an expected reconciliation forum involving politicians and other stakeholders.

Officials said the meeting focused on the political and security situation in South West State, state-building, political consultation and ways to strengthen social unity and cohesion.

The two sides emphasized the importance of dialogue and resolving political disputes through discussion, mutual respect and political agreement.

They also exchanged views on the broader situation in Somalia and South West State, including the need to create conditions for political stability, lasting peace and inclusive state-building.

The visit comes as forces loyal to former South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen remain positioned on the outskirts of Baidoa, raising concerns about renewed fighting in the city.

Aden Madobe thanked Mohamed Mursal’s delegation for visiting Baidoa and taking part in reconciliation efforts.

He also welcomed the role of Somali leaders, politicians, elders, religious scholars and other sections of society in de-escalating tensions and encouraging dialogue.

The delegation’s visit is part of broader political efforts to ease tensions in Baidoa, with attention focused on the planned reconciliation conference expected to open in the city.

The initiative could pave the way for dialogue between the sides involved in the South West political dispute.

Baidoa has seen several rounds of clashes between forces loyal to Laftagareen and forces aligned with the current South West administration.