The former president of Somalia, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who is the leader of the Himilo Qaran party, accused the federal government of being behind attacks that he said targeted opposition politicians and civilians during the political tensions in Mogadishu.
Sharif said that the events that took place in the districts of Abdi Azis and Hawlwadaag were planned attacks that used heavy weapons and government forces, arguing that the aim was to suppress the opposition and people who are ideologically opposed to the government.
According to him, his party was planning the opening of a new center and the organization of a peaceful demonstration, but he was attacked by forces that he said were for the defense of the nation. He also noted that traditional elders and members of political mediation have also faced similar attacks.
The leader of Himilo Qaran accused the government leaders of showing political intolerance and deviating from the principles of governance and the political agreements that governed the transition of the elections.
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed also said that troops have been moved from different areas of the country to be used for political purposes, instead of focusing on the fight against Al-Shabaab.
He added that government weapons are in private hands, which he described as a threat to national security.
“Government weapons are intended for the defense of the people and fighting the enemy, and it is not appropriate to face politicians or civilians,” said former president Sharif.
On the other hand, he condemned the arrest and pressure on journalists and people who express their views, calling on the government to release people who he said were arrested for political reasons.
Sharif called for an end to political conflicts and to start a dialogue to reach an agreement on the country’s elections. He stressed that peaceful demonstrations are a constitutional right of citizens and cannot be suppressed by military force.
“An agreed and peaceful election is the only way to maintain stability in the country,” he added.
Finally, he called on the leaders of the government to avoid what he described as tyranny and social division, and prioritize political agreement and stability in the country.
