BAIDOA (WDN) — Special forces from Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) have been officially deployed to the city of Baidoa, as preparations intensify for a planned visit by the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected.
The move follows the federal government’s full takeover of the control over the city on March 30, 2026, signaling a significant shift in the security landscape. The deployment of these elite forces is also part of broader measures to stabilize Baidoa, which is set to host key political meetings to reinforce the overall security in the Southwest State.
Federal government forces have captured Baidoa from the administration of President Abdiaziz Laftagareen, who fled to Nairobi, Kenya and had governed the South West State for approximately seven years.
Meanwhile, Macalin Saalax, Commander of the Civilian Protection Forces, has also arrived in Baidoa. Reports indicate he is expected to be appointed as the head of NISA in Southwest State, a position left vacant after the departure of the former commander, Shaahiyow.
Sources further suggest that Shaahiyow refused to comply with a recent federal directive ordering him to report to Mogadishu—an action believed to have led to his removal from office.
These security and leadership changes come at a time when Southwest State has been grappling with political tensions and internal disputes. The federal government appears to be prioritizing a mix of security measures and political interventions aimed at restoring stability and restructuring the regional administration.
President Hassan Sheikh’s visit is expected to include meetings with Southwest State leaders, traditional elders, and various segments of society, in an effort to strengthen cooperation and seek sustainable solutions for peace and development.
Amid these developments, Baidoa has emerged as a central hub for the government’s efforts to consolidate security, with attention now focused on the outcomes of the President’s visit and the anticipated reforms.
On the other hand, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur “Madoobe,” Speaker of the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia, who is also visiting Baidoa held a meeting with acting ministers of the Southwest State administration.
The Speaker urged the officials to maintain the functioning of ministries until elections acceptable to the people of Southwest State can be organized. The meeting was attended by the Second Deputy Speaker of the House of the People, members of the Federal Government, members of parliament, and other officials.
WardheerNews
