Somalia news
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The gist
Somalia's military repelled an attack by militias loyal to ousted Governor Laftagareen in Baidoa. The clash escalates a federal-state dispute amid ongoing al-Shabab rebellion.
Background
Baidoa is the largest city in Somalia's South West State, which has been at the center of a political and security dispute between the federal government and regional leader Laftagareen. In March, federal forces took control of Baidoa, leading to Laftagareen's resignation. The recent attack is part of ongoing tensions, with the federal government also fighting the al-Shabab insurgency that controls large areas of central Somalia.
How it unfolded
- Mar 30, 2026Federal forces took control of Baidoa, leading to Laftagareen's resignation.
- Aug 17, 2026Clashes between federal troops and armed opposition groups in Baidoa resulted in civilian casualties.
- Sep 3, 2026Fighting erupted early Thursday between government forces and militias on the outskirts of Baidoa; the military said it repelled the attack.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Somalia's Defence Ministry said militias loyal to ousted Governor Laftagareen launched the attack and that the army inflicted a heavy defeat on the attackers.
- Public
- Civilians fled their homes amid heavy gunfire, and last month's fighting left at least four civilians dead and 98 wounded.
Still unverified
The claim that militias loyal to Laftagareen launched the attack is from the Defence Ministry's statement and has not been independently confirmed.