South West Cuts Ties with FGS Amid Widening Rift Between FMS and Mogadishu

GOOBJOOG NEWS|BAIDOA: South West State has suspended cooperation with Somalia’s Federal Government (FGS), escalating an already fragile relationship and signalling deepening divisions within the country’s federal system.

The announcement was delivered by the state’s official spokesperson, who accused federal authorities of undermining federalism and interfering in the internal affairs of the regional administration led by President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed “Laftagareen.”

“If the federal system is not respected, then its purpose is in question,” the spokesperson said, reflecting growing frustration within the state leadership. In a further warning, the spokesperson added: “Somalia cannot function when the system meant to unite it is disregarded. We will not continue cooperation under conditions that undermine our authority and the federal arrangement.”

Travel Restrictions Announced

The decision comes just a day after South West State imposed travel restrictions on government officials and security personnel in Baidoa.

In a directive issued on Monday by the Ministry of Internal Security, officials and members of the security forces were barred from leaving the city without prior authorization. Authorities said the measure was intended to strengthen security coordination, warning that violators would face legal consequences.

The restrictions were widely seen as an indication of heightened tensions and concerns over internal security.

Part of Wider Federal Rift

South West State now joins Jubaland and Puntland, both of which have previously cut or suspended ties with the Federal Government over disputes related to governance, constitutional authority, and power-sharing.

The growing number of regional administrations distancing themselves from Mogadishu highlights an ongoing struggle over the implementation of Somalia’s federal system.

Recent Fighting in Baidoa

The latest developments follow recent clashes in Baidoa involving security forces and armed groups, further straining relations between federal and regional authorities.

While details of the fighting remain fluid, both sides have traded accusations over responsibility for the violence. The unrest has raised concerns about stability in a key region central to operations against Al-Shabaab.

Security analysts warn that political divisions could weaken coordination between federal and regional forces, potentially creating vulnerabilities that militant groups may exploit.

Longstanding Disputes

Tensions between South West State and the federal government have persisted for years, often driven by disagreements over political control, security management, and the limits of federal authority.

The administration of President Laftagareen has previously taken firm positions in disputes with Mogadishu, reflecting broader national disagreements over the balance of power between the centre and federal member states.