Federal Gov’t Extends Mandates Of South West Local Administrations Amid Political Tensions

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAIDOA: The Federal Government of Somalia has extended the mandates of regional and district administrations in South West State, citing security concerns and an escalating political standoff that has disrupted governance structures in the region.

In a statement, the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation said the move is intended to prevent administrative vacuums that could undermine public service delivery and stability, particularly as parts of South West face heightened political uncertainty.

The decision comes against the backdrop of a deepening rift between federal authorities and the South West State leadership, alongside internal disputes over legitimacy and control of regional institutions.

Tensions have been especially visible in recent weeks, with local officials in areas such as Bakool publicly rejecting the authority of the state leadership, raising fears of fragmentation within the administration.

The ministry noted that several local administrations had already exceeded their legal mandates, making it necessary to introduce interim arrangements to ensure continuity of governance while a more comprehensive political resolution is pursued.

Under the directive, current administrations will remain in office until new local councils can be lawfully constituted through an agreed process. Federal authorities emphasized that the extension is temporary and aimed at stabilizing governance structures rather than altering political arrangements.

Officials added that the government will engage traditional elders, community leaders, and regional stakeholders to sustain functioning administrations and fill any leadership gaps that may emerge during the transition period.

Security agencies have also been instructed to support the implementation of the directive and help maintain order, particularly in areas experiencing political contestation.

The Federal Government said the measure forms part of broader state-building efforts, as Somalia continues to navigate complex federal-regional relations and prepare the ground for more structured and inclusive local governance processes.