Mogadishu / Baidoa — A military aircraft departed Mogadishu earlier today carrying elements of the Somali National Army’s 77th Brigade, a unit known for its role in protecting senior state leadership, amid rapidly evolving developments in Baidoa following the removal of Abdiaziz Laftagareen from power.
Sources familiar with the movement said the deployment appears aimed at reinforcing federal presence in the Southwest regional capital after forces aligned with Mogadishu took control of key installations in the city with minimal resistance. The situation on the ground in Baidoa is described as tense but largely stable, with security forces maintaining positions around major government facilities.
Officials in Mogadishu have not released a formal statement on the troop movement, but multiple indications suggest preparations are underway for high-level visits to Baidoa in the coming days. Senior government figures originally from the region are expected to travel to the city, a move widely seen as an effort to consolidate authority and signal a transition in leadership.
The developments follow a sharp escalation between the federal government and Southwest State authorities, culminating in Laftagareen’s ouster. While details surrounding the political process remain unclear, federal-aligned forces now appear to hold decisive control over Baidoa.
Residents report an increased military presence across the শহ, particularly around administrative centers and transport hubs. Commercial activity has begun to resume in some areas, though uncertainty remains over how the political situation will unfold.
Analysts say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the federal government can stabilize the region and avoid further confrontation, especially as attention turns to how local leaders and communities respond to the shift in power.
