The President of the Southwest, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen), has accused the federal government of Somalia of carrying out what he described as a “blatant invasion” and direct interference against the administration he leads.
In a speech today to newly trained troops, President Laftagareen said the central government is using special forces and aircraft to transport militias and troops to the Southwest regions.
Lafta Gareen accused Villa Somalia of “dividing the people of South West” and of pressuring and intimidating districts and officials in his administration.
“Somalia is not just Hamar,” said Lafta Gareen, arguing that the power and resources of the government are being used for political and security pressure against the Somali people.
The South West President said that the weapons and equipment of the Somali government, as well as the opportunities arising from the lifting of the arms embargo, have been diverted to harm the people and forces in the areas of that administration.
“In the last two days, there have been naked and shameless attacks, which are beyond humanity and beyond Somaliness,” said Lafta Gareen.
He, on the other hand, praised the AUSSOM troops and the officers who participated in the training of new South West forces. He said that these new forces are being prepared to take over the security of their areas, when foreign forces leave the country.
He also thanked addressed the ministers and MPs of the South West administration, saying they were fully committed to “defending the country” and supporting the new forces.
At the end of his speech, Laftagareen promised that soldiers who completed their training would receive their military rights, including pay, promotions, medical care, and official military recognition.
