MOGADISHU — Intellectuals, community leaders, traditional elders, and professionals in Somalia’s Southwest State (SWS) have expressed deep concern over the worsening security, political, and humanitarian situation in the region.
In a joint statement following a series of consultations, the stakeholders described the crisis as multidimensional, citing armed confrontations, institutional collapse, civilian casualties, destruction of homes and public infrastructure, and large-scale displacement. They warned that the trajectory of events could trigger wider communal conflict and, potentially, mass atrocities in an already fragile humanitarian context.
The group emphasized that they do not support any political faction but said neutrality does not mean silence amid escalating violence and governance breakdown. They acknowledged concerns over possible interference from external actors but stressed that resolving the crisis remains primarily the responsibility of Southwest State’s leadership and its people.
The stakeholders called on the state’s president to prioritize long-term stability, public welfare, and peaceful dialogue. They urged the leadership to uphold the state constitution and conduct the presidential election in a timely, transparent, and lawful manner, allowing all eligible candidates to participate.
The statement also addressed the federal government, asserting that it bears responsibility for any escalation and should act neutrally, respecting local dynamics and the federal system outlined in Article 48 of Somalia’s provisional constitution.
Citizens of Southwest State were urged to insist on governance that reflects the will of the people and to reject leaders installed by force or external influence. The stakeholders also recommended the immediate establishment of a neutral dialogue platform and election commission, along with confidence-building measures, to ensure disputes are resolved through lawful and inclusive processes.
Finally, the group cautioned against plans by the state’s election commission, recently appointed by the president’s office, to hold elections immediately, warning that such a move could exacerbate the conflict and human suffering.
