On 25 April 2021, hundreds of Somali soldiers entered Mogadishu opposing extensions of the presidential mandate.
Background
On 14 April 2021, acting President of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed signed a law which extended his mandate by two years. This was opposed by opposition leaders which called it "a threat to the stability, peace and unity" and by the international community.[4]
History
On 25 April 2021, soldiers - mainly from Hirshabelle - entered the Somali capital Mogadishu after president Mohamed approved two years extension of his term in office. Rebels seized northern part of the city clashing with pro-government forces in some neighborhoods. Pro-government soldiers attacked homes of former Somali president and opposition leader. By the end of the day government forces withdrew towards Villa Somalia.[2]
On 6 May 2021, soldiers agreed to withdraw from Mogadishu after series of talks with the Prime Minister, held by the opposition. The police were set to take control of the city.[5] On 8 May 2021, roads were reopened and rebels withdrew from Mogadishu in vehicles towards Lower and Middle Shabelle.[6]
References
- ^ Former Somalia leader says soldiers attacked his house, 25 April 2021
- ^ a b Why Somalia’s Electoral Crisis Has Tipped into Violence, 27 April 2021
- ^ Statement by the Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia: Concerns over mass displacements in Mogadishu, 28 April 2021
- ^ "Somali president signs law extending mandate for two years". France 24. 2021-04-14. Archived from the original on 2021-04-14. Retrieved 2021-12-01.
- ^ "Somali premier welcomes demilitarization of capital Mogadishu". Anadolu Agency. Archived from the original on 2021-05-06. Retrieved 2021-12-01.
- ^ Somalia: SNA mutineers exit Mogadishu following deal with opposition, 8 May 2021
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