Somalia: President Hassan Sheikh Questions Timing of Opposition Protest in Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday questioned why opposition leaders scheduled a planned protest on the same day that direct local elections were being held in the SouthWest regional state, and the date of the talks in the capital, Mogadishu.

In a speech addressing the country’s political and security situation, Hassan Sheikh congratulated residents of South West State for what he described as their peaceful participation in “one person, one vote” elections held Sunday morning across several districts.

The president hailed the vote as a significant step toward restoring political power directly to Somali citizens after years of indirect electoral processes.

He said the federal government remains committed to implementing nationwide universal suffrage elections, allowing Somalis to directly elect their leaders.

Hassan Sheikh also called on opposition politicians to present constructive political programs and practical solutions for the country instead of, as he put it, “trading on public sentiment.”

The president accused opposition groups of undermining a government-led consultation process intended to address political disputes and electoral issues, saying the planned demonstration coincided with a day set aside for dialogue between the government and political stakeholders.

He further claimed authorities had intervened to prevent security threats after opposition figures allegedly displayed heavy weapons during protest-related activities.

“Protests can be held, opinions can be expressed, and that is a constitutional right, but there is no need for demonstrations behind which dangerous elements can hide,” Hassan Sheikh said.

The remarks come amid heightened political tensions in Mogadishu between the federal government and opposition leaders, who remain divided over the country’s electoral model and broader political direction.

GAROWE ONLINE