Gunfire erupts in Mogadishu as election delay dispute escalates

The capital city of Somalia saw large‑scale gun battles last night as federal forces clashed with opposition fighters who were staging protests over the President’s one‑year term extension.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s mandate officially ended on 15 May, but the parliament passed a law extending his term until 2027. The opposition declared the move unconstitutional and warned of mass demonstrations.

Residents reported that gunfire broke out in several neighbourhoods and persisted throughout the night. Police announced a “large‑scale security operation” in the city centre where militias had launched mortar attacks.

When the term expired, the federal government and opposition began talks that stalled, leaving Somali people in a tense limbo. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire said he was attacked by government troops just before the planned peaceful rally, blaming the president for the violence.

Special Secretary Sharif Sheikh Ahmed claimed the assault would not stop the demonstrations, warning that rebels would resist any attempt to suppress them.

The US embassy in Mogadishu described the outbreak as “reckless,” urging all parties to resolve differences peacefully and preserve stability.

At this time, the numbers of wounded or deceased remain unknown. The President has not yet responded to the incident.