MOGADISHU — Somalia’s main opposition coalition has announced plans to stage a fresh anti-government protest in the capital, Mogadishu, on May 16, escalating an already tense standoff with federal authorities.
The opposition bloc, the Somali Salvation Forum, said Monday it remains committed to what it described as a “peaceful and constitutional struggle” against alleged government abuses, including forced evictions, land seizures, and misuse of power.
In a strongly worded statement, the forum accused the administration of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of obstructing a previously planned protest by deploying large numbers of security forces across Mogadishu. It said military, police, and intelligence units were stationed in key areas, while major roads were closed, restricting civilian movement and preventing demonstrators from gathering.
The opposition said it had complied with government instructions by agreeing to hold the earlier protest at the Engineer Yarisow Ex-Konis Stadium, a venue proposed by authorities to minimize security risks. However, it alleged that despite this agreement, the government imposed sweeping restrictions that disrupted public life, including transport services, schools, and businesses.
“The measures taken by security agencies were excessive and aimed at silencing dissent while undermining constitutional rights,” the statement said.
The forum also alleged that security forces opened fire on protesters in Mogadishu’s Dayniile district, killing at least one civilian and injuring two others. It called for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident and urged accountability.
In addition, the opposition demanded the immediate release of individuals detained during the protest operations, particularly young people. It accused authorities of a broader campaign of intimidation targeting opposition politicians, journalists, and civil society activists.
The federal government has not yet responded to the latest allegations.
The planned May 16 protest is expected to heighten tensions between the government and opposition groups, amid growing disputes over demolitions and contested land ownership in Mogadishu. Opposition leaders say the demolitions have led to the forced displacement of vulnerable communities without due process or adequate compensation.
Government officials, along with the Banadir regional administration, have defended the actions as necessary to reclaim public land, enforce urban planning regulations, and maintain order in the fast-growing capital.
Analysts warn that the situation could worsen if both sides fail to engage in dialogue, raising concerns about political stability in a country already facing significant security and governance challenges.
