Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has accused the federal government of using security forces to intimidate opposition politicians and attempting to weaken political opposition. In a recent interview with local media, Sharif criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's handling of political opposition and security operations in Mogadishu. He alleged that Hassan Sheikh is seeking to eliminate or weaken political opposition to govern without meaningful challenges to his authority.
Sharif revisited a security incident near his Mogadishu residence on October 10, accusing government forces of attempting to intimidate him and restrict his political activities. He claimed that security personnel were deployed around his home and that demands were made for their withdrawal. Although tensions have since eased, Sharif said restrictions remained on visitors entering his residence, including security screening and the installation of surveillance cameras.
Sharif accused government officials of using state security institutions to advance political interests rather than protect public safety. He rejected allegations that his security detail posed a threat to Mogadishu, saying the personnel assigned to protect him were officially registered with the government and were not members of an unauthorized militia. His remarks follow earlier accusations by the National Intelligence and Security Agency that armed personnel linked to the former president had attacked intelligence officers in Mogadishu's Wadajir district.
Sharif's office denied the allegations and accused security agencies of targeting his staff and restricting access to his residence. The former president urged security institutions to operate independently, respect the law, and avoid becoming involved in political disputes. He also criticized restrictions on opposition demonstrations, arguing that Somalis have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly and political expression.
Turning to the electoral dispute, Sharif said the opposition was not opposed to elections but wanted an agreed process that would guarantee fairness and public confidence. He called for renewed negotiations between the federal government and opposition groups to resolve disagreements over constitutional amendments and the timetable for national elections. Somalia's National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has scheduled parliamentary elections for April 15, 2027.
Opposition groups, including the Somali Future Council, have rejected the timetable, arguing that it was announced without a broad political agreement. The federal government maintains that the electoral schedule is consistent with the revised Constitution and election laws. Sharif urged the government to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, warning that continued political divisions and the use of security institutions against opponents could further undermine stability in Mogadishu.
The situation in Somalia remains volatile, with ongoing tensions between the government and opposition groups. The country's stability is also threatened by the presence of extremist groups, such as al-Shabab. Sharif's allegations and calls for dialogue highlight the need for a peaceful and inclusive resolution to the country's political disputes.
Key points
- Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed accuses government of intimidation and threats against opposition figures.
- Sharif urges government to prioritize dialogue over confrontation to resolve electoral disputes.
- Somalia's stability is threatened by ongoing tensions between government and opposition groups.
