Somalia declares order restored after two days of fighting in Mogadishu

Violence in Mogadishu, Somalia, that paralyzed two districts for over two days has subsided, with the federal government declaring order restored. The clashes, which erupted on Wednesday and eased by Friday, stemmed from a dispute over President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's extended term, which the opposition deems a power grab. The Ministry of Information stated that opposition militias were disarmed and civilians have returned to their daily lives. However, the UN reported at least 13 deaths and 189 wounded, with approximately 12,500 households displaced, warning of severe humanitarian impact despite the government's claims of normalcy. The fighting occurred near the residences of former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

Heavy gunfire erupted in Mogadishu, Somalia, as a dispute over the extension of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term escalated. The president's mandate, which ended on May 15, was extended by one year, a move the opposition deemed unconstitutional. In response, opposition groups called for protests on Thursday, leading to clashes with government forces in several neighborhoods. Police stated they were engaged in a security operation against armed militias. Talks between the federal government and the opposition following the term's expiry failed to yield an agreement. Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire reported being attacked by government forces while preparing for the planned demonstrations.

Fierce clashes erupted in Mogadishu, Somalia, between government troops and opposition-allied militias, damaging property and forcing civilians to flee. The violence began Wednesday afternoon, ahead of planned Thursday protests against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's decision to extend his term by a year after it expired on May 15th. Opposition leaders embedded with militias reportedly set up positions in clan strongholds, and former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed accused government forces of attacking his home. Former prime minister Hassan Ali Khaire alleged government troops used heavy weapons in populated areas. The UN and diplomatic missions condemned the violence, urging restraint and dialogue to resolve political differences.

Kenya is facing growing fears of political violence ahead of next year's general election, with hired youth gangs, known as "goons," becoming increasingly active. These groups, often linked to politicians, have evolved into sophisticated networks, posing a significant threat to national security. The Interior Minister acknowledged the government's struggle to contain over 104 active criminal gangs, some of which are allegedly patronized by political leaders. This situation is exacerbated by the presidential ambitions of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who claims to have been a target of violence since his impeachment. Authorities have arrested hundreds and recovered weapons, but no politicians have been detained, highlighting the persistent challenge of addressing these politically-motivated criminal organizations.