MOGADISHU, (HAN) — The long-anticipated public demonstration that was set to take place in Mogadishu tomorrow has been postponed once again following an agreement between the Somali government and the opposition-led Rescue Forum (Madasha Samata-bixinta).
The decision came after an extensive high-level meeting held in Mogadishu, which brought together senior government security officials and key opposition leaders to discuss concerns over security and public safety. The two sides agreed to form a joint security committee to coordinate preparations and ensure that any future demonstrations are conducted peacefully and lawfully.
The meeting was attended by the Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), the Somali Police Commissioner, and prominent opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and Wadajir Party leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame.
According to sources close to the talks, discussions centered on the growing political tension in the capital and the opposition’s demand to exercise the constitutional right to peaceful assembly. Government officials reportedly expressed concerns over potential threats that could endanger public safety if the protest were to proceed without adequate coordination.
“The goal is to maintain peace and stability while respecting the rights of citizens to express their views,” said one source familiar with the meeting, adding that both parties emphasized the importance of avoiding confrontation between protesters and security forces.
The Rescue Forum had previously announced plans to mobilize large crowds in Mogadishu to protest against what it described as the government’s mismanagement and failure to address key national issues. However, amid rising tensions and warnings from security agencies about possible extremist infiltration, both sides agreed that dialogue was the safest course of action.
In a joint statement, representatives from the government and the Rescue Forum affirmed their commitment to peaceful engagement and underscored that any future demonstration would be carried out in accordance with the law and under strict security coordination.
The newly established joint committee will be responsible for reviewing security arrangements, proposing suitable dates, and setting clear guidelines for how future protests can take place without violence or disruption. Its recommendations are expected to be submitted in the coming days.
Political observers say the agreement marks a significant step toward easing political friction between the government and the opposition, which has intensified in recent months over governance, security, and electoral concerns.
