Somalia replaces Mogadishu troops ahead of opposition protests and political tensions

MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s federal government has replaced troops and commanders stationed at major security checkpoints across Mogadishu ahead of planned opposition rallies and growing political tensions linked to the expiration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term on May 15.

The changes mainly affected northern districts of the capital, including Karan and Heliwa, where large numbers of security forces had long maintained control of key roads and entry points into the city. Authorities replaced many of the troops with units officials are believed to consider more loyal to the current administration amid fears some forces could support opposition groups during a possible political crisis.

Most of the removed troops were redeployed to regions neighboring Mogadishu, while new commanders took control of checkpoints and security positions they vacated. According to local media and security analysts, many of the newly appointed commanders are linked to the president’s sub-clan, reflecting broader efforts by the government to strengthen control over the capital before expected demonstrations.

The troop reshuffle comes as Somalia faces rising uncertainty over elections, constitutional reforms and political stability. Opposition leaders have accused the federal government of suppressing dissent and increasing pressure on political rivals through tighter security measures in Mogadishu.

Northern Mogadishu remains a sensitive security zone because of its strategic access routes from Middle Shabelle region into the capital. In 2021, forces opposed to former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s term extension entered parts of Mogadishu with military vehicles, triggering clashes that raised fears of wider conflict in the city.

Analysts say the latest changes appear aimed at preventing a repeat of that crisis by limiting the influence of commanders traditionally viewed as sympathetic to the opposition.

The reshuffle follows a recent incident involving former Somali army chief Odowa Yusuf Rageh, who was reportedly stopped by federal security forces at a checkpoint on the northern outskirts of Mogadishu while attempting to enter the city with a heavy security escort.

Political observers viewed the move as part of wider government efforts to tighten control over movement into and out of the capital amid fears that former military officials or allied forces could support opposition activities during a tense political period.

The developments come days before opposition figures plan mass rallies across Mogadishu on May 10. Organizers say the demonstrations are intended to protest forced evictions, land seizures and house demolitions carried out in many districts of the capital.

President Mohamud has scheduled talks with opposition leaders on the same day.

Government officials warned that unauthorized protests will not be allowed and security forces are expected to enforce restrictions aimed at preventing unrest and maintaining order in the capital.

Local media reports say Somali authorities have spent recent years training and equipping thousands of troops considered loyal to the incumbent president. Many of those forces have reportedly been deployed in Mogadishu and surrounding areas to secure strategic roads, checkpoints and government institutions.

The increased military presence reflects growing concerns within the administration over possible political instability as disputes continue over elections and the future of Somalia’s federal system.

Mogadishu has repeatedly experienced political crises linked to delayed elections and tensions between federal authorities and opposition leaders. Analysts warn that any confrontation involving security forces and opposition supporters could destabilize the capital at a time when Somalia continues military operations against the Al-Shabaab militant group and faces broader security challenges nationwide.

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