Clashes broke out across Somalia’s capital as tensions over delayed elections escalated into violence.
Heavy fighting has erupted in Mogadishu after government forces and opposition fighters exchanged gunfire amid growing disputes over Somalia’s delayed elections.
Residents reported intense shooting in several parts of the capital, with clashes continuing overnight. Police said security forces launched operations against armed groups accused of carrying out mortar attacks in parts of the city.
The unrest follows a controversial decision to extend President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term by one year after it officially expired on May 15. Opposition leaders have rejected the extension, describing it as unconstitutional, and called for nationwide protests.
Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused government forces of attacking opposition figures ahead of planned demonstrations, while former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed vowed that the protests would continue despite the violence.
Somalia has been working to transition to direct democratic elections, replacing a long-standing system where clan elders select lawmakers who then choose the president. Talks between the government and opposition failed to produce an agreement after the president’s term expired.
As political tensions rise, concerns are growing that the election dispute could further destabilise Somalia’s fragile security situation.
READ ALSO: https://alo360.net/israel-lebanon-ceasefire-agreement-hezbollah/