MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, Somali security forces detained Abdirahman Saleban, the leader of the opposition People’s Party, on Thursday night.
Saleban is facing accusations of “crimes against national security,” a charge after his vocal criticism of the government and his allegations against former Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nuur.
Saleban’s detention follows a series of public statements in which he harshly criticized the Somali government, including accusations that Nuur had refused to hand over his office to the newly appointed defense minister. According to sources, Saleban’s remarks, which painted a picture of disarray within the government, led to heightened concerns about his political activities.
The arrest has sparked outrage among opposition groups and political leaders. The opposition parties Himilo Qaran and Wadajir and former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo have strongly condemned the move. They described Saleban’s detention as a “kidnapping” by the government, accusing it of silencing dissent and undermining political freedom.
In a joint statement, the opposition groups demanded Saleban’s immediate release and called on the international community to intervene, urging the Somali government to respect basic democratic principles and human rights.
The government, for its part, has not issued an official statement addressing the accusations directly. However, sources close to the administration suggest that the arrest is part of a broader effort to maintain national security and curb destabilizing rhetoric amid ongoing political challenges.
The incident comes at a time of heightened political polarization in Somalia, with opposition parties becoming increasingly vocal in their criticism of the government. Tensions have been rising as the country faces security challenges from militant groups, and allegations of corruption and mismanagement continue to plague the administration.
Saleban’s detention marks the latest in a series of arrests involving opposition figures in recent months, raising concerns among human rights groups about the growing crackdown on political dissent in Somalia.
