Federal Forces Take Baidoa Without Bloodshed as Lafta Gareen Resigns
By: Abdiasis Farah Said
March 30, 2026A major political shift has unfolded in Southwest Somalia after federal government forces entered Baidoa without resistance, marking a decisive turning point in the ongoing political crisis.Earlier in the day, troops aligned with the federal government advanced into the regional capital and secured control of the city without reported clashes, easing fears of a potentially violent confrontation.Lafta Gareen Resigns and Leaves CountryJust hours after the takeover, Abdiaziz Lafta Gareen announced his resignation at approximately 6:00 PM Somalia time, ending his contested bid to remain in office.Sources indicate that shortly after stepping down, Gareen departed the country on a flight to Nairobi.In an official statement, the presidential palace confirmed that an interim leadership arrangement has been put in place. A letter released by the administration named the state’s finance minister as acting president until a new leader is elected through an agreed process.A Major Win for the Federal GovernmentThe developments represent a significant political victory for Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and his administration.Analysts say the peaceful capture of Baidoa strengthens the federal government’s position in pushing forward its plan to implement a nationwide one-person, one-vote electoral system—an ambitious reform aimed at replacing Somalia’s indirect voting model.Control of Southwest State also carries substantial political weight. The region holds 78 seats in Somalia’s federal parliament, making it a key power base in national politics.
