Armed confrontations broke out in Somalia’s capital, Somalia, after growing anger over the postponement of national elections and the extension of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term.
Violence was reported in several districts of Mogadishu, where government security forces and opposition-aligned militias exchanged gunfire and mortar fire ahead of planned anti-government demonstrations. Residents described heavy weapons fire, explosions, and widespread panic, with many families fleeing their homes as buildings were damaged or set ablaze.
The unrest follows a political dispute triggered by the decision to delay elections, which opposition groups say is an attempt by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to extend his hold on power beyond his mandate. The government has rejected these accusations, insisting the delay is linked to national security and electoral preparations.
Witnesses reported that armoured vehicles were destroyed and residential areas were hit by stray mortars. While no official casualty figures have been confirmed, local sources and international observers warned that civilians were caught in the crossfire.
Security forces described the violence as “organised attacks” linked to political factions, while opposition figures accused the government of using heavy military equipment against civilians and political opponents.
The clashes eased temporarily by Thursday morning as both sides reportedly moved toward negotiations, though tensions remain high and protests are still expected.
International actors, including the African Union, European Union, and United States diplomatic mission in Mogadishu, have urged restraint and called for dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Somalia, which continues to face instability alongside the long-running insurgency by al-Shabab, has not held a fully stable electoral cycle in decades, and repeated disputes over presidential terms have frequently triggered unrest.
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