Somalia's partners raise concerns over Mogadishu violence

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A number of Somalia's international partners have raised concerns over escalating violence in the capital Mogadishu, which escalated Sunday, following heavy fighting pitting troops loyal to outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo and the opposition leaders.

For the better part of Sunday, the troops exchanged fire as they sought to take control of strategic positions in Mogadishu, with bullets heard everywhere within the rather safe city, which hosts the country's parliament and executive.

The latest skirmishes have been triggered by the resolution of the Lower House to extend President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo's term without the approval of the Senate, leading to massive protests across the country, especially in the Banadir region.

In a series of seemingly coordinated messages, the international partners reiterated the need to restore peace in the country, arguing that political differences are best resolved through dialogue, something which has failed to materialize.

"Highly concerned about the ongoing events in Mogadishu. The general interest requests maximum restraint, preserve institutions that belong to all and dialogue. Violence is unacceptable. Those responsible will be held accountable," Nicolas Berlanga, the EU envoy to Somalia said.

"Reports of violence in Mogadishu are deeply concerning. We call for calm and restraint - peaceful dialogue is in the best interests of Somalia," the United Kingdom, through Kate Foster noted in a statement.

"UN in Somalia is deeply concerned about clashes occurring in Mogadishu. We urge calm and maximum restraint by all parties. Violence is not the solution to the current political stalemate. We urgently call on all parties to resume immediate dialogue," UNSOM added in a statement.

Former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur had separately accused the government of deploying troops to their residences, leading to heavy fighting in the outskirts of Mogadishu.

"Farmajo's forces raided my residence. We have warned in the past that the army could be used for political purposes. Any consequences of the attack will be bear by Mohamed," Abdirahman Abdishakur, who is a presidential candidate noted.

"Unfortunately, an army under the command of the former president attacked my residence. I have already warned and reiterated the dangers of politicizing security. Farmaajo is responsible for the consequences," noted Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

But outgoing Somali Internal Security Minister Hassan Hundubey denied that government forces attacked the homes of former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur. According to him, the fights were triggered by clan militia, although reports indicate that it was SNA mutineers.

GAROWE ONLINE