U.S. Warns Mogadishu Actions Could Carry “Lasting Consequences” for Somali

MOGADISHU, June 5 — The United States on Thursday warned that escalating violence and political decisions in Mogadishu could have “lasting consequences” for Somalia’s stability, as clashes continued in the capital following a dispute over a constitutional amendment extending the president’s term.

The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu said it was “deeply concerned” by the surge in violence and urged Somali leaders to resolve political differences peacefully.

“The ongoing violence in Mogadishu is despicable,” the embassy said on X. “Somali leaders on all sides have a responsibility to maintain stability and resolve differences peacefully. The actions taken in the coming hours and days could have lasting consequences for the security, unity and future of Somalia.”

Heavy fighting broke out in several districts of Mogadishu on June 3 after tensions rose ahead of an opposition rally planned for June 4. The unrest followed a constitutional amendment that would extend President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s mandate beyond its original expiry date of May 17, 2026.

Opposition groups and some regional leaders rejected the amendment as “illegal,” accusing the government of undermining democratic processes and delaying credible elections.

Witnesses quoted by Al Jazeera reported gunfire and explosions in multiple neighbourhoods, including Hawlwadag. Opposition figures, including former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, accused government forces of targeting opposition gatherings and the homes of senior politicians.

Khaire said on X that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had ordered a military operation against opposition leaders. He claimed government forces attacked him, former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, regional leaders and other political figures for nearly 20 hours.

He alleged that tanks, mortars and drones were deployed in densely populated areas and that electricity supplies were deliberately cut, calling the actions “war crimes under international law.” He also accused the government of diverting resources meant for the fight against al-Shabaab to suppress political opponents.

The Somali government denied the accusations, saying armed groups linked to the opposition had attacked police stations and checkpoints with heavy weapons and fired into civilian areas.

Opposition leaders have called for nationwide demonstrations starting Friday to protest the term extension, forced evictions and what they describe as broader threats to governance.