MOGADISHU – A planned opposition-led protest in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, was postponed on Saturday following diplomatic and community-led efforts to ease mounting political tensions, reliable sources said.
The demonstration, which had been announced by members of the opposition alliance known as the National Salvation Forum, was delayed as talks reportedly took place between Villa Somalia — the presidential palace — and influential traditional elders, lawmakers, and politicians.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is also believed to be actively seeking dialogue with opposition figures in a bid to defuse the standoff and prevent further escalation.
Some opposition leaders have accused the presidency of using divide-and-rule tactics aimed at weakening the cohesion of the National Salvation Forum. Villa Somalia has not issued an official response to the allegations.
Meanwhile, residents in the capital are watching developments cautiously, amid fears that the political uncertainty could impact both the city’s fragile security and daily life.
The coming weeks are expected to be critical in shaping the future of the opposition movement and determining how the federal government responds to growing calls for political dialogue and consensus.
