MOGADISHU — The Somali government on Friday declared that order had been restored in parts of the capital Mogadishu after two days of intense fighting between government forces and opposition-linked fighters that disrupted normal life in several districts.
The violence, which broke out on Wednesday, spread across key areas of the city and left residents sheltering indoors as gunfire and explosions echoed through parts of the capital.
Authorities said calm had returned to the districts of Abdiaziz and Hawlwadag, which had been among the hardest hit by the clashes.
Government officials described the situation as “under control,” saying security forces had reasserted authority over affected neighbourhoods.
“The security situation in Mogadishu has improved and order has been restored,” an official statement said.
Residents in some areas reported a gradual return of normal activity on Friday, with limited movement resuming on major roads.
However, tensions remained high in several parts of the city, with a heavy security presence still visible.
Opposition groups, meanwhile, rejected the government’s declaration, accusing authorities of using excessive force during the operation.
They insisted that their political position remained unchanged and vowed to continue resisting what they described as illegitimate rule.
The clashes marked one of the most serious security incidents in Mogadishu in recent months, raising fresh concerns about political stability in Somalia.
Eyewitnesses said armed confrontations between rival forces caused widespread fear among civilians, many of whom were forced to stay indoors for safety.
Humanitarian observers warned that continued political violence could worsen the already fragile security environment in the capital.
The Somali government has faced repeated challenges from opposition factions over governance, elections, and constitutional disputes.
Analysts say the latest unrest underscores deep divisions within the country’s political leadership and the difficulty of maintaining lasting stability.
International partners have repeatedly called on Somali leaders to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than armed confrontation.
Despite the government’s announcement of restored order, many residents remain cautious, fearing that tensions could flare up again if political disagreements are not addressed.
Security officials say investigations into the clashes are ongoing, and additional measures may be taken to prevent further violence in the capital.
