Somalia: Former president moves to north Mogadishu ahead of planned mass protest

MOGADISHU – Former Somali president Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has moved to northern Mogadishu, with reports saying the relocation is intended to keep him closer to his family amid rising political tensions in the capital.

Sources familiar with the move said Sheikh Sharif moved his residence to be among his clan, seen as a precaution to avoid any possible restrictions, including fears of being placed under house arrest, as the political situation in Mogadishu remains tense.

The former president is also among opposition figures expected to take part in a planned protest on Sunday, May 10, which organisers say will proceed despite warnings of possible confrontation with the Somali government. 

Tensions have been rising in the Somali capital ahead of the demonstration, with opposition leaders accusing the federal government of forced evictions and heavy-handed security measures, allegations the authorities have not yet publicly addressed in detail.

Sheikh Sharif has not made a formal public statement confirming his participation, but opposition figures have maintained that the protest will go ahead regardless of the risks.

GAROWE ONLINE