(07-04-23) MOGADISHU – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed the people at the Villa Somalia Mosque on Friday’s sermon, announcing new measures to be taken against officials who refuse to be checked at checkpoints. The President ordered that any official driving a vehicle and refusing to comply with the checks will face action.
In addition, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud spoke about the machine guns often seen around the city. He stated that these weapons are primarily for show and that security personnel should not be visible in the city with their armed vehicles. The President emphasized that heavy weapons cannot be carried in Hamar, as it is essential for the people’s safety and the city’s beauty.
These statements have caused concern among some politicians who believe that the President is targeting critics. MPs contacted by Halqabsi News have expressed their apprehensions, pointing out that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud himself used to protect himself with heavy weapons when he was in opposition.
The security in Mogadishu has deteriorated compared to the past, as the fight against Alshabaab enters its second phase, the question remains: is it fair for politicians or security officials to carry heavy weapons, as the President did in the past? Some argue that individuals with differing views from the President are being targeted under the guise of security measures.
Critics have called on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to consider the implications of his statements, questioning whether the ban on heavy weapons in Mogadishu is genuinely for the city’s safety or if other motives are at play. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these new measures will impact security and the political climate in Mogadishu.
