Somalia maintains the country’s security remains stable despite pockets of demonstrations linked to opposition politicians.
Despite calls by opposition groups for mass protests, only isolated demonstrations were reported in parts of the capital Thursday, while many residents continued with their daily activities. Others chose to remain indoors as a precaution amid heightened political tensions.
Businesses across several districts remained open, and public services continued to operate normally throughout the day, reflecting what authorities described as a largely calm security environment.
Government officials moved quickly to reassure citizens and regional partners that the demonstrations would not derail Somalia’s progress toward political stability and democratic governance. They stressed that the country’s future would be determined through constitutional and democratic processes rather than through unrest or attempts to disrupt public order.
Mogadishu Mayor and Banaadir Regional Governor Hassan Muungaab praised the conduct of security forces and residents during the protests.
“I commend the Somali National Armed Forces and the security institutions for the professional, courageous and responsible manner in which they are working to maintain security, protect the public and strengthen the pillars of statehood,” Muungaab said.
Muungaab further urged residents to support calls by the international community for stability and constructive engagement, emphasizing the importance of resolving political differences peacefully through dialogue and democratic institutions.
Security and political analyst Ali Musa, based in Nairobi, says Somalia must remain focused on protecting the gains achieved over the past decade.
“Somalia needs strategic and patient leaders committed to building institutions and strengthening democratic processes, not chaos that risks undoing the progress made in recent years,” he said.
Defence Minister Ahmed Fiqi also dismissed the protests, saying: “The era of acting like warlords is over. The door has now been closed on intimidation, force and the use of militias to seek power or obstruct the state.”
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration has pointed to recent achievements, including democratic reforms, economic recovery initiatives and efforts to strengthen state institutions after decades of conflict. The government has also highlighted Somalia’s accession to the East African Community (EAC), a move it says will expand trade and economic opportunities within the regional bloc of more than 300 million people.
