Former Southwest President rejects federal claims linking his forces to al-Shabab group

Friday August 28, 2026

Baidoa (HOL) — Former Southwest State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen has strongly rejected federal government allegations linking forces loyal to him to al-Shabab, warning that such claims could endanger civilians and worsen political tensions.

In a statement issued Aug. 27, Laftagareen’s office expressed concern over an African Union Commission memorandum dated Aug. 21 concerning a request submitted by Somalia’s federal government to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The statement said Southwest Darawish forces are legally established security forces mandated to protect civilians, public institutions, security and the constitutional order of South West State.

“Describing these forces as ‘militias affiliated with Al-Shabaab,’ without independently verified evidence, endangers civilians and security personnel and risks undermining public confidence in AUSSOM,” the statement said.

Laftagareen’s office warned against conflating Somalia’s internal political disputes with the legitimate fight against terrorism.

It said disputes between the federal government and federal member states should be resolved through dialogue, constitutional processes and an inclusive political framework.

“Using military force to pursue political objectives could further intensify violence, displacement and social division,” the statement said.

Laftagareen’s office said it recognizes and appreciates the sacrifices made by African Union forces and their long-standing contribution to peace and security in Somalia.

It also welcomed what it described as a clear instruction in the African Union memorandum that AUSSOM must maintain political neutrality and impartiality and refrain from involvement in internal political disputes.

“We call upon the African Union and AUSSOM to uphold this instruction fully and undertake an independent verification of the facts before supporting or participating in any military action,” the statement said.

The office also warned against any action that could lead to violence, bombardment, displacement or harm to civilians in Baidoa and surrounding areas.

It said all operations must comply with international humanitarian law, civilian protection obligations and AUSSOM’s rules of engagement.

Laftagareen’s office called on AUSSOM troop-contributing countries, the African Union, the United Nations and international partners not to rely on unverified information or politically motivated allegations.

It said Southwest State authorities remain ready to share relevant information and participate in an independent fact-finding process while prioritizing dialogue, stability and the safety of Somali civilians.

The statement comes after Somalia’s federal government recently described forces loyal to Laftagareen as al-Shabab-linked militants, accusing them of attacking Baidoa several times in an attempt to capture the city.

Laftagareen’s side has denied any connection to al-Shabab.