MOGADISHU – The Somali opposition has released a statement following a large gathering held last night in Mogadishu. The meeting, organized under the “Rescue Forum” (Madasha Samatabixinta), brought together opposition lawmakers, women leaders, intellectuals, members of the diaspora, civil society organizations, youth groups, business figures, and representatives of displaced communities.

In a communiqué issued after the discussions, participants raised concerns over several issues, including alleged violations of the national constitution, delays in federal member state elections, and the forced displacement of residents in Mogadishu.

The opposition accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of bearing direct responsibility for ongoing land grabs in the capital. They further argued that the mandates of several federal member state leaders had already expired, calling for fresh elections to be organized in those states.