Somali Troops And Opposition Militias Clash Ahead Of Anti-Government Protests In Mogadishu

Tensions escalated in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, as government forces and militias allied with opposition leaders exchanged heavy gunfire overnight and into Thursday morning, causing property damage and forcing residents to flee their homes.

The clashes erupted ahead of planned anti-government protests over President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision to remain in office after his term expired last month. The dispute stems from constitutional changes approved by parliament in March, which could allow the president to extend his tenure by one year and delay elections.

Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed accused government troops of surrounding and attacking his residence, describing the move as part of a broader effort to suppress opposition voices. He also criticized the government’s constitutional changes, which opposition figures argue are illegal.

Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire alleged that government forces deployed heavy weaponry, including anti-tank weapons and drones, in densely populated areas of the capital. He further accused the government of carrying out a sustained military assault aimed at opposition leaders. Reuters noted that it could not independently verify those claims.

Residents reported intense fighting in Mogadishu’s Howlwadag and Abdiasis districts, where thousands of government troops were said to have been deployed. Witnesses described mortar shells striking residential areas, injuring civilians and setting homes ablaze.

One resident said a mortar shell landed on a neighboring house, injuring a woman, while another large home nearby caught fire after being hit. He added that civilians were fleeing the violence with their children as the fighting continued.

Another witness reported that at least two armored vehicles were destroyed during the clashes by opposition-allied militias.

Somalia has faced decades of instability since the collapse of the central government in 1991 following the fall of former ruler Mohamed Siad Barre. The country also continues to battle a long-running insurgency by the al-Qaeda-linked militant group al-Shabaab.

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu condemned the violence, describing it as reckless and urging all political actors to preserve stability and settle their differences peacefully. The United Kingdom also called for restraint and dialogue, saying the violence was unacceptable.

As tensions remain high, concerns are growing that the political dispute could further destabilize the country at a time when it is already facing significant security challenges.