By Nuh Mohamed - Reporter
Kismayo (Dawan Africa) Jubaland State accused Somalia’s federal government of attacking opposition leaders at a time when efforts were underway to resolve the political dispute in Mogadishu.
In a statement issued by the Jubaland Presidency, the state administration accused Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of being the attack on the residences of former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire.
Jubaland said the attack took place while opposition leaders were engaged in a peaceful meeting with traditional elders led by the Murursade clan chief, Ugas Abdirisaq Ugas Abdullahi, to seek a resolution to the current political standoff.
The Jubaland administration described the move as a violation of citizens’ constitutional rights, particularly freedom of speech, peaceful assembly and expression of opinion.
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Jubaland also called for Somalia’s political dispute to be resolved through dialogue and consensus, saying the country’s fragile situation cannot withstand another political crisis.
For its part, the federal government accused former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire of organizing what it described as armed militia who allegedly attacked a police checkpoint.
The statement comes as Mogadishu faces rising political tensions linked to today's planned opposition protests. The government has said demonstrations can only take place in areas designated by security agencies.