The Opposition is Organizing Preparations for a Planned Protest in Mogadishu

Mogadishu – The city of Mogadishu woke up this morning as members of the Somali opposition began movements and preparations related to a large protest planned to take place in the capital on Thursday.

The opposition officials involved in these preparations include former President of Somalia, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, and former Prime Minister, Hassan Ali Kheyre.

According to reports, political mobilizations and ongoing meetings are taking place in districts of Mogadishu, particularly in areas close to key government facilities. Sources have also indicated that security has been tightened in locations where some opposition leaders are present.

The planned protest is based on grievances the opposition has regarding the policies of the Federal Government of Somalia, including issues related to the electoral process that concluded on May 15, governance of the country, and allegations concerning the displacement of residents from neighborhoods in Mogadishu.

Political and civil society actors have called on all parties to maintain peace, stability, and law, and to express their grievances peacefully and in accordance with the constitution and laws of the country.