Somalia, 25 September 2025 – A showdown looms in Mogadishu on Saturday after the Banadar Regional Administration termed the planned opposition demonstrations illegal.
Speaking at a meeting in Kaaraan District Governor of Banadir Region, Hassan Mohamed Hussein ‘Mungaab’, rejected the protests called by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, in three locations in Mogadishu, adding that the opposition leaders had not sought approval from the administration.
However, the opposition leaders insisted the protests would go on as planned.
Mungaab accused the opposition of attempting to incite chaos in the city after failing to achieve their political goal, urging the public not to participate in the demonstrations.
The Governor stated that the violence that took place at the Warta Nabadda Police Station on Wednesday was unlawful and a direct attack by the opposition against the government.
"There is no place where protests can be called. They do not have authority over Siinaay or Tarabuuka, and neither are they responsible for them.”
“Anyone who tries to stand against the law is attempting to create chaos. As the Governor, I hereby direct the security forces to take legal action against anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace and stability of this city." said Mungaab who is also the Mayor of Mogadishu.
His warning follows an announcement by former President Sharif that the opposition group, The Salvation Forum, will hold large-scale protests in Siinaay, Tarabuuka, and Dayniile, on Saturday. The three locations have previously witnessed violent clashes.
"The Forum intends to call on Somalis everywhere to participate in peaceful protests against the corrupt actions and land grabbing in Mogadishu. These protests will begin on Saturday and will take place in Siinaay, Tarabuuka, and Dayniile," he said.
This development follows the unrest that took place on Wednesday at the Warta Nabadda Police Station, between government forces and the opposition.
The situation has caused tension, and there are fears of further confrontations between the government and the opposition.
