The Somali opposition said that a large demonstration that was scheduled to take place in various neighborhoods of Mogadishu has been moved to Eng Yarisow Stadium, after key roads in the capital were closed and large numbers of troops were deployed by the Federal Government.
Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, speaking to local media, officially announced that the demonstration would be held at Eng Yarisow Stadium, calling on the public to gather there at around 11:00 a.m.
Sheikh Sharif said that the demonstration was against the displacement and destruction being carried out by some people living in Mogadishu, urging people to participate in the rally peacefully.
The opposition had previously planned their demonstration to take place in various locations in Mogadishu, and finally accepted the proposal of the Ministry of Security and the Banadir Regional Administration to hold the opposition demonstration at Eng Yarisow Stadium.
The government has deployed heavily armed troops and military vehicles to parts of the city, with security tightened ahead of the rally.
The opposition has accused the government of trying to stifle the protests, while security officials have said the measures are to maintain stability in the city.
