By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Mogadishu, 24 August 2026 — The Union of Somali Scholars said the government has a legal right to manage public land in Mogadishu, but actions must serve the public interest and consider vulnerable communities.
The statement followed a meeting Sunday between Banadir Governor and Mogadishu Mayor Hassan Mohamed Hussein “Muungaab,” Endowments Minister Mukhtar Robow, and leaders of the Union.
The meeting focused on complaints over land ownership as authorities pursue efforts to reorganize public land in the capital, the Banadir administration said.
The clerics said management of public land was a legal authority for the government.
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The Banadir administration said protecting privately owned land remained a priority and violations of private property rights would not be tolerated.
“Protecting private ownership is always a particular priority for the administration,” it said in a statement after the meeting.
The administration said it was ready to hear and resolve residents' complaints, with committees including a land dispute resolution committee tasked with handling cases. Special committees involving religious scholars can also take part, it said.
The meeting ended with an agreement to maintain consultations between the administration, the Endowments Ministry and religious scholars to protect “the interests of religion, the public and the country.”