Armed clashes erupt in Somalia’s capital ahead of a planned anti-government demonstration

Clashes between state security forces and opposition supporters continued in Mogadishu on Thursday, following violent confrontations the previous evening. The fighting, described by residents as involving heavy weapons fire, disrupted neighborhoods like Howlwadaag, forcing families to flee for safety. Opposition figures organized a protest against alleged constitutional violations and claims that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sought to extend his presidency, accusations the government denies. Police attributed the violence to coordinated attacks by armed militias linked to political groups, rejecting claims of peaceful demonstrations. Security forces repelled the assaults and launched investigations into those responsible for financing and organizing the attacks. Opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, accused the government of targeting their residences during the unrest. The United Nations and the United States condemned the violence, with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres calling for restraint and dialogue to resolve political differences. The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu labeled the actions reckless, warning that further escalation could destabilize Somalia’s security and unity. Khaire alleged that state security forces, including troops trained to combat al-Shabab, were deployed against political opponents. The clashes reflect deepening divisions between the government and opposition over electoral and constitutional reforms amid Somalia’s ongoing struggle against al-Shabab. International partners supporting Somalia’s state institutions have been drawn into the dispute, as tensions risk undermining stability in a country already facing significant security challenges.