‘No Mercy’: Somali Defence Minister Warns Opposition as Political Crisis Deepens

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Defence Minister of Somalia's term-ended Federal Government Ahmed Moallin Fiqi has issued a stern warning to opposition politicians against mobilising militias or taking steps that could threaten security in the capital Mogadishu.

Speaking about the security situation in the city, Fiqi said the federal government would not tolerate attempts to undermine public security, particularly through military mobilisation.

He directed the warning specifically at opposition politicians, saying tough action would be taken if they began organising armed groups at a time of heightened political tensions in Somalia.

“If the opposition mobilises militias, they should be dealt with firmly,” Fiqi said.

His comments come as security in Mogadishu remains a major priority for the federal government, with the minister saying that significant lives and financial resources have been lost in efforts to maintain stability in the capital.

Fiqi said Somalis had made major sacrifices to secure the city and that no one should be allowed to undermine the security situation.

“We have lost precious brothers for security, and now four million [in money] is being spent so easily. There should be no mercy for anyone who reaches out to harm security,” he said.

The minister’s remarks underscore the government’s position against any armed mobilisation in Mogadishu, amid a broader political dispute over Somalia’s electoral process and the future of the country’s political institutions.

GAROWE ONLINE