Somalia: Calm Returns to Mogadishu After Two Days of Clashes

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Relative calm returned to the Somali capital on Saturday after two days of clashes and heightened security tensions between federal government forces and troops loyal to opposition figures.

Residents reported a significant reduction in military movements across the city, with traffic and civilian activity resuming on key roads after security forces and armed groups withdrew from several flashpoint areas.

Former Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire returned to their residences in Mogadishu's Halane area following mediation efforts aimed at easing tensions and restoring stability.

The federal government said it had concluded a security operation against what it described as "anti-peace militias" accused of attempting to create unrest in the capital. Authorities said security forces had successfully secured the city and prevented actions that could have threatened public order.

Meanwhile, international partners intensified efforts to defuse the political crisis, with diplomats urging both the government and opposition leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve disputes over elections, governance arrangements, and Somalia’s democratic transition.

The latest tensions have raised concerns among international observers, who have called for restraint and a negotiated solution to prevent further instability in the Horn of Africa nation.

GAROWE ONLINE