Somalia’s partners raise concerns over Mogadishu violence
MOGADISHU, Somalia – A number of Somalia’s international partners have expressed concern over escalating violence in the capital Mogadishu, which escalated on Sunday after heavy fighting that created troops loyal to outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo and opposition leaders.
For most of Sunday, troops exchanged fire as they sought to take control of strategic positions in Mogadishu with bullets heard throughout the fairly secure city that hosts the country’s parliament and executive.
Recent clashes have been triggered by the House of Commons’ decision to extend President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo’s term without Senate approval, leading to massive protests across the country, particularly in the Banadir region.
In a series of seemingly coordinated communications, the international partners reiterated the need to restore peace in the country, arguing that political disagreements are best resolved through dialogue, something that has not materialized.
“Very concerned about the ongoing events in Mogadishu. The public interest calls for maximum restraint, preserving all-inclusive institutions and dialogue. Violence is unacceptable. Those responsible will be held accountable,” said Nicolas Berlanga, EU envoy to Somalia.
“Reports of violence in Mogadishu are deeply worrying. We call for calm and restraint – peaceful dialogue is in Somalia’s best interests,” the United Kingdom said in a statement.
“The UN in Somalia is deeply concerned about clashes in Mogadishu. We call for calm and maximum restraint from all parties. Violence is not the solution to the current political stalemate. We urge all parties to resume immediate dialogue,” UNSOM added in a statement. .
Former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur had each accused the government of deploying troops to their homes, leading to fierce fighting on the outskirts of Mogadishu.
“Farmajo’s forces looted my home. We have previously warned that the army could be used for political purposes. Any consequences of the attack are borne by Mohamed,” noted Abdirahman Abdishakur, a presidential candidate.
“Unfortunately, an army led by the former president attacked my residence. I have already warned and reiterated the dangers of politicizing security. Farmaajo is responsible for the consequences,” Hassan Sheikh Mohamud noted.
But outgoing Somali Interior Minister Hassan Hundubey denied that government forces attacked the home of former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur. According to him, the fighting was triggered by clan militias, although reports suggest it was SNA killers.
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