By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 4 April 2026 – South West State interim leader Jibril Abdirashid Haji met traditional elders on Friday to push for stability and advance reconciliation efforts following recent political tensions in the region, state media reported.
The talks held in Baidoa focused on strengthening peace, unity and community cohesion.
During the meeting Haji stressed the critical role of traditional elders in resolving disputes within communities and supporting reconciliation initiatives.
“South West State gives priority to peace and coexistence among its people,” he said, according to state media.
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The meeting is part of the federal government's ongoing peace efforts following months of political tensions that led to the resignation of South West State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen.
Traditional elders welcomed the engagement and pledged to work closely with the administration to support lasting peace and development in the region.
Haji, who is also Somalia's deputy prime minister; thanked the elders for their role and urged them to intensify efforts to promote stability and social harmony.
The new administration is seeking to stabilise the region by involving key groups in reconciliation talks.