Somalia: Opposition MP airlifted to Nairobi after "suspected poisoning"
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Staff Reporter GAROWE ONLINE
- Posted On 20-10-2024, 07:25AM
MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somali opposition MP Mohamed Abukar Jafar has been urgently flown to Nairobi for medical treatment following what is suspected to be a poisoning incident, with many fearing the involvement of political foul play.
As a vocal member of the opposition against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's administration, MP Jafar's sudden illness and deteriorating health have led him to go on an urgent health trip abroad.
Jafar had been receiving medical care in Mogadishu Hospital for the last two days before his family decided to transfer him to Kenya's capital city Nairobi after his condition worsened.
Medical professionals at Digfeer Hospital in Mogadishu who spoke to Garowe Online indicated that his symptoms suggested possible poisoning, though the specific substance involved has not yet been identified.
A doctor who spoke to Garowe Online hinted that Jafar may have ingested a toxic substance, possibly hidden in food or drink, triggering his alarming symptoms.
The timing of Jafar's illness has raised red flags, especially considering his recent meeting with opposition leaders, including former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.
These meetings have heightened tensions between opposition groups and the current administration, with some observers drawing parallels to the politically charged violence that marred President Mohamud's previous term between 2012 and 2016.
During that time, several members of parliament were assassinated in the capital Mogadishu in the past, heightening fears that similar violence could return.
Though there has been no official confirmation of poisoning and the government has not yet commented on this case.
Opposition figures including legislators and citizens alike are on edge as they await more information on MP Jafar's condition and the possible causes behind it.
GAROWE ONLINE
