Police boss warns of security risks in Mogadishu ahead of opposition protest

A political standoff is escalating in Mogadishu after the government accused opposition groups of organising potentially destabilising demonstrations across the capital, raising fears of renewed tensions in the fragile Horn of Africa nation.

In a press statement issued from Villa Somalia, the government said it supports citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and political participation but expressed concern over plans for demonstrations in 22 locations across Mogadishu.

Authorities said they had proposed Engineer Yarisow Koonis Stadium as a designated protest venue to help maintain security and public order.

However, opposition organisers allegedly rejected the proposal and instead announced multiple protest sites, alongside plans for several consecutive days of demonstrations.

The dispute comes at a politically sensitive time for Somalia, where disagreements over elections, constitutional reforms, and power-sharing arrangements have increasingly strained relations between the federal government and opposition leaders.

Banadir Regional Police Commissioner Col. Mo’allim Mahdi defended the government’s position, saying officials were trying to balance democratic freedoms with public safety concerns.

“The government recognizes the right of citizens to express their political views peacefully,” Mo’allim Mahdi said.

“Our concern is ensuring that demonstrations do not escalate into violence or disrupt the lives and security of ordinary residents in Mogadishu.”

The government claimed security reports had indicated the presence of armed individuals linked to opposition groups in some parts of the capital, although opposition leaders have not publicly responded to the allegations.

Officials also criticised remarks attributed to former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who reportedly referenced past armed conflicts while addressing supporters.

The administration described the comments as provocative and potentially dangerous in an already tense political climate.

Security forces have since increased their presence along key roads and in strategic areas across Mogadishu.

Authorities insist the deployment is preventive and aimed at protecting civilians, businesses, and public infrastructure while allowing lawful demonstrations to proceed peacefully.

Political observers say the situation reflects deeper frustrations within Somalia’s political landscape, where opposition groups have repeatedly accused the government of restricting political space, while authorities argue that security concerns require tighter controls in a city vulnerable to militant attacks and clan-based violence.

Mogadishu has witnessed periodic political confrontations in recent years, some of which escalated into armed clashes that displaced civilians and disrupted economic activity.

The prospect of renewed instability is particularly concerning as Somalia continues military operations against al-Shabaab and works to strengthen state institutions after decades of conflict.

The government has called on political actors, civil society organizations, and international partners to support dialogue and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.