By Horn Africa News
MOGADISHU – Somali Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, issued a stern warning to opposition politicians on Tuesday, declaring that any armed activity in the capital will not be tolerated.
During a visit to Galmudug State, Minister Fiqi confirmed that the Ministry of Defence has issued a formal directive banning the carrying of weapons in Mogadishu.
Mr. Fiqi warned that anyone violating this order would face serious consequences.
Citing past incidents, including opposition-led protests near Mogadishu’s airport during former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s administration, Fiqi said the government aims to prevent similar unrest.
The Minister also criticized some former national leaders, accusing them of contributing to political instability. He specifically pointed to former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, alleging that he deployed armed forces into the parliamentary compound during the tenure of the late Speaker Prof. Mohamed Sheikh Osman Jawari.
This warning comes amid rising political tensions as the current administration, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, approaches the final eight months of its term. The President has insisted on holding a direct popular vote in 2026, accusing the opposition of advocating for indirect elections—the method used in Somalia since 2000.
