By Hassan Adan
Heavy fighting broke out in several parts of Mogadishu on Wednesday night after government security forces clashed with armed groups aligned with opposition leaders, escalating political tensions ahead of planned anti-government demonstrations in the Somali capital.
Heavy gunfire and explosions were in the districts of Howlwadaag and Cabdi Casiis as security forces and opposition fighters exchanged fire in confrontations that lasted for several hours.
The clashes came amid a deepening dispute between the Federal Government and opposition leaders over constitutional amendments, electoral reforms and the country’s political direction.
Former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed accused government forces of attacking his residence during the operation.
“The government forces encircled and attacked my house,” Sharif said in a video statement released shortly after the clashes.
“I am never scared of their aggressive attack. I will fight back,” he added.
Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire also condemned the operation, accusing security forces of targeting opposition leaders and their supporters.
“We are under attack,” Khaire said in a statement.
He further alleged that government troops used heavy weapons in residential neighborhoods, raising concerns about civilian safety.
The Federal Government has blamed the unrest on armed groups linked to opposition politicians, saying security agencies acted to maintain public order and prevent instability in the capital.
In a statement, Mogadishu police described the incidents as “coordinated armed acts” rather than peaceful political activities and said investigations were underway.
Witnesses said civilians sought shelter as gunfire echoed across several neighborhoods, while some roads were temporarily blocked by security forces.
No official casualty figures had been released by Thursday morning, although residents reported injuries and damage to property in areas affected by the fighting.
The violence occurred ahead of opposition demonstrations planned for Mogadishu, where political leaders have been mobilizing supporters to protest against constitutional changes approved by parliament and what they describe as efforts to extend the government’s mandate.
In a joint statement, members of the international community expressed concern over Somalia’s political situation and urging leaders to return to dialogue.
“The signatories of this joint statement are concerned by the current situation in Somalia,” the statement said.
The diplomats called on all parties “to resume dialogue as soon as possible, and to swiftly reach consensus on an election roadmap in the interest of the Somali people.”
The statement further noted that international partners “stand ready to assist in Somali-led talks, should they be requested.”
“In this delicate moment, we urge all Somali leaders to prioritize the national interest, and refrain from any actions that may lead to an escalation of tensions,” the statement added.
The joint statement was endorsed by the United Nations, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Ireland, Belgium, Austria, Poland, Portugal and Spain.
Following the overnight clashes, concern grew among diplomats and political observers over the possibility of further escalation in the capital.
The confrontation highlights growing divisions between the Federal Government and opposition leaders over constitutional reforms, elections and the future direction of Somalia’s political system.
As Mogadishu woke to the aftermath of a tense night, calls were growing for dialogue and restraint to prevent further violence and preserve stability in the country.
