Somalia claims to have regained control of Mogadishu after clashes linked to the political crisis

The Somali government announced Friday that it had restored order in two districts of the capital, Mogadishu, following clashes between security forces and militias allied with opposition leaders. The fighting had forced many residents to flee parts of the city.

The violence occurred amid heightened political tensions. It erupted before planned protests against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's decision to remain in power after his term expired last month. Ultimately, these demonstrations did not take place.

The crisis stems from constitutional amendments approved by Parliament in March. Opponents argue that these changes could allow the president to extend his term for another year and postpone elections, fueling accusations of institutional abuse.

In a statement, the Somali Ministry of Information claimed that opposition-linked militias had been disarmed and demobilized, adding that residents had resumed their normal activities. However, this version is disputed by several local witnesses.

Residents interviewed indicated that the armed groups had not been disarmed but had simply ceased fighting following mediation led by traditional clan leaders. Reuters was unable to obtain an immediate response from key opposition leaders.

Among the most vocal critics was former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, who accused government forces of targeting his home during the clashes. He also denounced what he considers an illegal amendment to the Constitution by the current government.

This new surge in tensions underscores the fragility of Somalia's political situation. While the country continues to face major security challenges, including the threat from Islamist armed groups, internal divisions surrounding the presidential succession risk further exacerbating instability in the capital and the rest of the country.