Baidoa Under Curfew Ahead of South West Presidential Vote

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAIDOA: The Somali Police Force has announced a curfew in Baidoa ahead of Wednesday’s presidential election in South West State, citing the need to maintain security and ensure a peaceful voting process.

In a statement, the Police Force said movement of both vehicles and pedestrians would be restricted across the city on June 10, except for security personnel, government officials, emergency responders and travelers using designated transport services.

The police said the measures were intended to safeguard public order during the election of the leader of the South West regional administration.

The security agencies also said emergency vehicles would remain available throughout the day and urged residents requiring urgent medical assistance to contact security personnel, local authorities or emergency services.

In a separate directive, security forces were instructed not to fire celebratory gunshots before or after the election, warning that anyone found violating the order would face legal action.

Residents were also encouraged to report any suspicious activities or potential security threats to the nearest security agencies.

The election comes at a politically significant moment for South West State, one of Somalia’s federal member states, as delegates and lawmakers prepare to choose the region’s next president amid heightened security measures.

Baidoa, the administrative capital of South West State, has hosted several major political processes in recent years and is considered a key political center in Somalia’s federal system.

Security restrictions, including temporary curfews and movement controls, have frequently accompanied major elections in Somalia as authorities seek to prevent violence and ensure the safety of voters, officials and candidates.

No major security incidents had been reported in Baidoa at the time of the announcement.