Government troops and opposition-allied militias exchanged fire in Mogadishu, damaging property and forcing some civilians to flee. The violence occurred ahead of planned protests against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's decision to extend his term.
The clashes highlight escalating political tensions in Somalia as the president seeks to extend his term, potentially leading to further instability and impacting regional security.
Overnight and Thursday morning, government troops and militias allied with the opposition engaged in armed conflict in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu. Residents reported property damage, including a house set ablaze by a mortar shell and at least two armored vehicles burned. The violence erupted ahead of planned protests against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's decision to remain in office after his term expired. Parliament had previously supported constitutional changes that could permit a one-year extension of his term and postpone elections. The fighting was concentrated in the Howlwadag and Abdiasis districts, with thousands of government troops deployed. Former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed stated that government forces targeted his home and accused Mohamud's government of illegally altering the constitution. Former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused government troops of using heavy weapons in a densely populated area and directed a sustained military assault aimed at killing him and Ahmed. The U.S. embassy in Mogadishu described the violence as 'reckless' and urged Somali leaders to preserve stability and resolve differences peacefully. The UK also urged restraint and dialogue.