MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s former President and current opposition leader Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has accused authorities of systematically stifling political dissent, alleging that the government has barred them from holding meetings in hotels in the capital Mogadishu.
Speaking at a conference hosted by his party on Saturday, Sharif addressed attendees under sweltering conditions on the rooftop of his home, a venue forced upon them due to what he described as government-imposed restrictions. He lamented the cramped space and intense heat, framing the circumstances as emblematic of the broader challenges facing the opposition.
Sharif claimed that authorities had not only prohibited them from convening in hotels but had also attempted to block gatherings in private homes.
In a pointed critique of incumbent President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Sharif warned against ruling “by the gun,” asserting that those who previously relied on force had ultimately abandoned such tactics. He emphasized that the current administration is “outnumbered in terms of weapons,” noting that arms are widespread among the populace.
The former president revealed that opposition leaders have engaged in private dialogues with Mohamud to address what they perceive as his missteps. However, he cautioned that if the president continues to ignore their concerns, they would mobilize the public to assert their self-determination and challenge the nation’s current trajectory.
Sharif’s remarks follow a recent incident in which authorities disrupted a meeting of several opposition parties attempting to unify, deploying troops to the venue and arresting hotel management for permitting the event.
This incident is not isolated; similar crackdowns have occurred in recent months, raising concerns over the government’s commitment to free speech, inclusive governance, and political tolerance.
Critics argue that these actions mark a stark reversal of President Mohamud’s earlier promises to uphold democratic principles and foster an environment of open political discourse.
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