By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) – Former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire said opposition figures would defend themselves, their communities and constitutional rights, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of directing a prolonged military assault in Mogadishu.
In a statement posted on X on Thursday, Khaire said the assault had continued for more than 20 hours and had targeted him, former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, traditional elders and other political leaders in the capital.
“For more than 20 hours, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has directed a sustained and indiscriminate military assault with the apparent objective of killing me, former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, dozens of respected traditional elders, and other political leaders in Mogadishu,” Khaire said of the Wednesday afternoon incident.
He alleged that heavy weapons, including anti-tank weapons, drones and other military assets, had been used in densely populated urban areas.
Khaire also accused the authorities of disrupting electricity supplies serving thousands of civilians and said state weapons intended for the fight against Al-Shabaab were being used against Somali leaders and citizens.
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“We will defend ourselves, our communities, and our constitutional rights,” he said.
Khaire called on military, police and security commanders to reject what he described as unlawful orders, saying their duty was to protect Somali people.
He also urged Somalia’s international partners to act immediately.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions in Mogadishu, following armed clashes between rival forces on Wednesday