Somalia: MPs blocked from travel at Mogadishu airport amid political tensions

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Several members of the Somali Federal Parliament were prevented from departing Aden Adde International Airport on Saturday, sparking a heated political row over freedom of movement and allegations of targeted discrimination.

The lawmakers, most of whom represent the South West State administration, were reportedly stopped by security officials while attempting to board international flights during a scheduled parliamentary recess.

The legislators claimed the move was politically motivated, specifically citing their regional leaders' affiliation as the reason for the travel ban. They described the incident as part of a growing pattern of political pressure, drawing parallels to similar travel restrictions previously reported in Jubaland and Puntland states.

The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition figures. The Somali President campaigned in 2022 on a platform of removing travel restrictions on airport movement, which are damaging Mogadishu's reputation and trust as a national hub.

As of Sunday morning, federal security agencies have not issued a formal statement explaining the legal or security grounds for barring the lawmakers from their flights.

The incident comes at a time of heightened friction between the Federal Government of Somalia and the South West State administration. Relations have deteriorated sharply after President Abdiaziz Laftagareen recently announced a suspension of all cooperation with the Mogadishu-based government, accusing it of direct interference in regional affairs.

 GAROWE ONLINE