A Somali defense official threatens to takeover Mogadishu Airport

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A senior Somali defense official has threatened to take over Aden Abdulle International Airport commonly called Mogadishu Airport, decrying the decision of the Lower House to extend President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo's government's term.

Lower House hastily extended Farmajo's term on Monday amid serious political rifts in the country, a move which has triggered worldwide condemnation. Already, Farmajo has signed into law the resolution giving him two more years at the helm of the Mogadishu administration.

But Brigadier General Mohamud Mohamed Koronto who previously served as the commander of the 27th sector of the Somali National Army has now threatened to take control of Mogadishu Airport if Farmajo goes ahead with serving two more years in office.

In this undated video, the General is heard saying Mogadishu security cannot be entrusted to Farmajo and the National Intelligence Security Agency [NISA] boss Fahad Yassin. The general, without providing evidence, said a foreign power is in control of the country’s affairs.

Koronto is currently in Canada.

His statement, analysts say, may trigger serious factions within the Somali National Army [SNA], thus exposing further rifts in the forces. Somalia is trying to build an army following years of civil war and Al-Shabaab infiltration in the country.

Mohamud's sentiments also come hours after Farmajo stripped former Mogadishu police commander Brigadier General Sadak John of all his ranks, discontinued his benefits, according to state media.

The long-serving police chief has attempted to suspend Monday’s session by the Lower House of Parliament which subsequently extended the term for Farmajo.

GAROWE ONLINE