By Zakariye Hassann - Reporter
Baidoa, 30 August 2026 - South West State's cabinet has declared former President Abdiaziz Laftagareen and his faction part of a terrorist group after attacks in Baidoa this month.
The resolution was issued after an extraordinary meeting chaired by regional leader Sheikh Adan Madobe.
The cabinet said Laftagareen and his camp would be dealt with "in the same manner as terrorist groups," accusing them of maintaining links and an alliance with Al-Shabaab.
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It cited explosions in Baidoa on Aug. 17 that heightened security concerns in the regional capital.
The cabinet also called for stronger security cooperation between the Federal Government and South West State to prevent further attacks.
Laftagareen announced his resignation as South West president on March 30 following disputes over elections and relations with Mogadishu.