Somalia: Opposition Alleges Plot Against Former Army Chief, Warns of Escalation

Odowa Yussuf Raage is a Somali military officer who has served as the Chief of Defence Force of Somalia from November 2024 to January 2026.

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The opposition leaders on Saturday accused security forces loyal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of planning operations targeting former military chief General Odowaa Yusuf Rage and other prominent opposition members, warning that such actions could deepen political tensions in the capital.

The opposition alliance, known as the Somali Future Council, said it had received information indicating that members of the Somali National Army and intelligence services were involved in plans aimed at General Odowaa, private residences, businesses, and well-known opposition figures in Mogadishu.

The allegations come amid heightened political tensions following recent security incidents and military deployments in the capital, where disputes over Somalia's political future have fueled concerns about stability.

In a statement, the forum also condemned what it described as an attack on the residence of Sheikh Abdulkadir Soomow, accusing senior federal government officials of violating previous understandings intended to reduce political and security tensions in Mogadishu.

The opposition group urged members of Somalia's armed forces to remain neutral and avoid involvement in political disputes, calling on security institutions to uphold their professional responsibilities.

It further warned that the federal government would bear responsibility for any instability or violence resulting from actions that it said could inflame the already fragile situation.

Odowa Yussuf Rageh is a Somali military officer who has served as the Chief of Defence Force of Somalia from November 2024 to January 2026.

There was no immediate response from the federal government to the allegations. Authorities have previously maintained that ongoing security operations in Mogadishu are aimed at maintaining public order and addressing security threats.

The accusations underscore the deepening rift between the government and opposition leaders as international partners continue to call for dialogue and restraint to prevent further escalation in Somalia's political crisis.

GAROWE ONLINE