Heavy fighting broke out in Mogadishu on Wednesday (3 Jun) afternoon as government forces and militias aligned with opposition figures exchanged fire amid growing political tensions.
The violence follows President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision to extend his term by one year, a move opposed by political rivals and several regional leaders.
Clashes were reported across parts of the city, including along Maka al-Mukarama Road, with residents describing intense fighting and civilian displacement.
Fighting began around 5 p.m. on Wednesday and continued into Thursday morning, with thousands of government troops deployed in Mogadishu’s Howlwadag and Abdiasis districts
Key developments:
- Fighting damaged property and prompted some civilians to leave affected neighbourhoods.
- Opposition figures, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, accused government forces of targeting them.
- Somali police said security operations were underway against armed militias.
- The United Nations, United Kingdom, and United States urged restraint and called for political dialogue.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the violence and called on all parties to protect civilians and resolve disputes through peaceful and inclusive negotiations.
ℹ️ The Guardian, Reuters
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