MOGADISHU — Somali opposition politicians announced on Tuesday that a major anti-government demonstration will take place in Mogadishu on June 4, escalating political tensions in the Horn of Africa nation amid disputes over governance and the country’s electoral direction.
Speaking at a meeting held at the Jazeera Hotel in the Somali capital, opposition leaders said the planned protest would be one of the largest public mobilizations against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud since he returned to office in 2022.
The opposition accused the president of governing without broad political consensus and alleged that his administration had lost legitimacy amid disputes over constitutional amendments and electoral reforms.
“We are calling on the Somali people to participate in a peaceful demonstration to defend democracy and the future of the country,” an opposition figure told reporters during the gathering.
The opposition coalition also accused the government of attempting to consolidate power while sidelining rival political stakeholders and regional leaders.
There was no immediate response from the federal government regarding the planned protest or the allegations raised during the meeting.
Political tensions in Somalia have intensified in recent months as disagreements continue between federal authorities and opposition groups over the electoral process, security arrangements and constitutional changes.
Security analysts warn that large political demonstrations in Mogadishu could heighten tensions in a city that has experienced years of insecurity and political instability.
The planned rally comes as Somalia continues military operations against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab while facing mounting political divisions ahead of future elections.
