Government forces battle troops loyal to ousted leader
Somali government forces have clashed with troops loyal to ousted South West State leader Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen over control of the key city of Baidoa.
The federal government said Laftagareen’s forces attacked army positions with support from Al-Shabaab militants, using vehicles loaded with explosives.
Government regains control
The government said its forces killed nearly 30 militants during the fighting and regained full control of Baidoa.
Witnesses reported heavy clashes across several areas of the city, with deaths and injuries reported.
Doctors Without Borders said several casualties were taken to hospitals but could not provide further details.
Political tensions
Laftagareen was removed from power by federal forces in March and failed to retake the state in May.
The latest fighting highlights Somalia’s deep political divisions as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud faces opposition from several regional states while also battling the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
Election challenges
Mohamud has sought to move Somalia towards direct democratic elections, replacing a system based on clan elders.
However, political divisions and security concerns have slowed progress, while critics accuse the president of attempting to extend his mandate.
