Reports indicate that former Speaker of the Federal Parliament, Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, and former South West State President, are exerting political pressure on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, demanding that the federal government facilitate their planned visit to Baidoa.
Sources close to Villa Somalia reveal that both politicians have repeatedly discussed the matter with President Hassan Sheikh, requesting clearance to travel to the South West regional capital. However, the president reportedly declined several times, citing a busy travel schedule.
According to insiders, Mursal and the former regional president — accompanied by former Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and political figure Dahir Gelle — have now taken their appeal directly to Villa Somalia, hoping to collectively push the president into granting permission.
Security sources in South West State have previously issued directives barring flights between Mogadishu and Baidoa from transporting politicians suspected of instigating unrest or fostering divisions among the local communities, which have long coexisted in relative peace and unity.
The latest standoff highlights growing political tension between Villa Somalia and opposition figures seeking greater access to regional political platforms ahead of upcoming national developments.
